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Protecting Lake Chilwa: How Mkuba Beach Village Committee is restoring hope through sustainable fish

Meet Patrick Mtanga, a passionate member of the Mkuba Beach Village Committee (BVC) from Group Village Namasalima, Traditional Authority Kumtumanji, in Zomba District. Together with his community, Mtanga is part of a growing movement to protect one of Malawi’s most critical water bodies Lake Chilwa.

The Mkuba BVC was formed with a mission to safeguard the lake’s resources for future generations. The committee plays a key role in monitoring fishing activities, especially during closed seasons and sensitizing local fishermen on sustainable fishing practices.

"Because of our efforts and the support we have received, the fish are multiplying again and the lake no longer dries up like it used to," Mtanga proudly shares. “CARD taught us how to preserve the lake and now we are seeing the results in our daily lives.”

In 2023, the committee’s work received a major boost as they were provided with tree seedlings, which were planted along riverbanks to combat soil erosion that threatened the lake’s ecosystem. In addition, CARD supported the BVC with MK 3 million in funding.

With this financial support, the committee made a smart investment they purchased 10 fishing boats. These boats are rented out to local fishermen at MK 1,500 per day, generating over MK 300,000 monthly. This income is not only reinvested into community initiatives but is also changing lives.

"This project has helped us support our families. We now have a sustainable income while also protecting our lake," says Mtanga.

And they not stopping there. The BVC has already made deposits for three more boats, bringing their total to 13, with two more on the way. Their long-term vision includes purchasing a large engine-powered boat capable of covering longer distances for business opportunities.

The Mkuba BVC currently supports over 1,000 fishermen, ensuring they follow best practices in line with conservation goals. The committee also received goats through a pass-on program, helping members produce organic manure reducing their reliance on expensive fertilizers.

The Mkuba BVC is a powerful example of how community-led conservation, supported by strategic partnerships, can yield real and lasting change. Their story shows that protecting the environment and improving livelihoods can go hand in hand.

We are implementing the project in partnership with Civil Society Network on Climate Change and Center for International Forestry Research-ICRAF, with support from Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA), Scottish international Aid Fund (SCIAF), through Trocaire.