The Media Network on Tobacco (MNT) has encouraged farmers to use Live Barns, popularly known as dzigafa za moyo, as they are starting to cure tobacco leaves.
In a statement, MNT president Alfred Chauwa said he believes that using dzigafa za moyo is one way of mitigating shocks coming from climate change.
“The tobacco industry contributed to rapid land deforestation-approximately 26% of deforestation in Malawi is attributed to tobacco production, one of the highest rates in the world.
“We are also encouraging Tobacco farmers to plant more trees to replace the ones cut down. As a network, we believe trees are vital components of our environment and provide us with oxygen, clean air, food, medicine, as well as habitat for wildlife.
“Trees also play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and protecting biodiversity. We must therefore work to preserve and protect trees and forests for future generations.
“MNT believes that Tobacco remains Malawi’s major forex earner. Therefore, all necessary measures need to be taken to protect the trade while at the same time protecting the environment,” he said
