Scholars bang heads on biodiversity mapping

Experts have emphasized the importance of biodiversity mapping to Malawi’s socio-economic development.

They say such a move would also expedite the attainment of Malawi 2063 vision goals, as biodiversity and environmental sustainability are an integral part of enabler 7 in the development agenda.

The enabler lists natural resources and the environment among key sources of revenue for Malawi.

Speaking at a biodiversity conference at Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) in Thyolo on September 5, 2023, Director of Research and Outreach, Professor Alfred Maluwa said Malawi is rich in natural resources that can enable the country to meet its development aspirations.

“When we, as a country, know what we have, we will be able to plan and make proper investments so that the country benefits more from its natural resources,” Professor Maluwa said.

Research manager at the National Planning Commission (NPC) Dr Andrew Jamali, echoed Professor Maluwa’s sentiments, saying Malawi needs to understand her biodiversity well if it is to make informed investments in its future.

“Economically, we, as a country, have what it takes to thrive. The key question is, how are we sustainably utilizing these resources to better our lives in a manner that doesn’t result in the depletion of these critical resources?” Dr Jamali said.

Professor Richard Durbin of the University of Cambridge’s Department of genetics said, if well managed, natural resources such as fish in the country’s lakes could not only provide the population with a a sustainable source of food but spur its economic growth as well.

The second biodiversity conference, which ends on September 7, brought together scholars from universities and think tanks from Africa and Europe. — Times Media