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Deployment of the Malawi Defence Force soldiers into Dzalanyama

The Government of Malawi introduced Malawi Defence Force intervention programme to deal with illegal logging for charcoal and firewood in Dzalanyama Forest Reserve. The objectives of the joint operations with the Department of Forestry include the following:-

  • To conduct patrols in the forest reserve particularly the most affected areas
  • To confiscate all the illegal forest products obtained without permit.
  • To impound vehicles, oxcarts, and bicycles used in trafficking illegal forest produce.
  • To confiscate all equipment and tools used in tree felling
  • To destroy by burning all charcoal kilns and erected structures in the reserve.
  • To mount ad hoc spot checks and road blocks in some routes leading to the reserve.
  • To apprehend and hand over to police all suspected offenders for prosecution.

The operations have been conducted 24/7 both inside and outside of the reserve(Central Forestry Zone Office Outlook Report 2015). And since the Malawi Defence Force deployment on 7th February 2015 there has been a tremendous change on the ground. The MDF has been working hand in hand with the Forest Department, local leaders, Police and the general public to successfully meet such an achievement.
MDF soldiers and a Forestry Ranger standing in front of charcoal maker's shelter
MDF Soldiers inspecting an abandoned truck


MDF Soldiers destroying a charcoal kiln


Stacked firewood ready for illegal charcoal making

MDF Soldiers destroying charcoal bags








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