The generally fertile soils of Lilongwe Plain which covers Dedza, Lilongwe and Mchinji districts are intensively cultivated and the area is densely populated for an essentially agricultural community (population density ranging from 260 to 503- Atlas for schools 2012). People in this area rely on rain fed and irrigation agriculture and this widespread industry would be impossible without water regulated by Dzalanyama Forest Reserve.
Maize is grown as the main food crop while tobacco and groundnuts are grown as cash crops in most parts of the area. The natural vegetation has therefore been extensively modified throughout the area due to heavy agricultural activities. Trees are commonly cut for tobacco curing, poles/stakes for construction of tobacco sheds and for drying, firewood for brick burning, household energy and expansion of agricultural fields.
The most preffered firewood and poles are those from native trees due to their high calorific value and strength to hold heavy roofs. Due to low levels of law enforcement in Dzalanyama Forest Reserve, most of the wood is obtained illegally by the surrounding communities via numerous footpaths leading into the reserve. Illegal tree cutting by farmers is the most devastating one because they target both old and the regenerants. This means that agricultural expansion in the region has contributed to the deforestation of Dzalanyama Forest Reserve.
Tobacco field
Tobacco drying, a stage at which poles and stakes are highly demanded
Maize is grown as the main food crop while tobacco and groundnuts are grown as cash crops in most parts of the area. The natural vegetation has therefore been extensively modified throughout the area due to heavy agricultural activities. Trees are commonly cut for tobacco curing, poles/stakes for construction of tobacco sheds and for drying, firewood for brick burning, household energy and expansion of agricultural fields.
The most preffered firewood and poles are those from native trees due to their high calorific value and strength to hold heavy roofs. Due to low levels of law enforcement in Dzalanyama Forest Reserve, most of the wood is obtained illegally by the surrounding communities via numerous footpaths leading into the reserve. Illegal tree cutting by farmers is the most devastating one because they target both old and the regenerants. This means that agricultural expansion in the region has contributed to the deforestation of Dzalanyama Forest Reserve.
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