Emily Phiri
𝐌𝐄𝐏𝐀 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞.
The Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) has commenced a series of engagements with district councils across the country to strengthen collaboration in the implementation of the Environment Management Act (EMA), 2017. The initiative aims to build stronger partnerships with local authorities and reinforce environmental governance at the district level.
As part of the initiative, MEPA conducted an orientation meeting for members of the Rumphi District Environment Sub-Committee (DESC), focusing on their roles and responsibilities under the Environment Management Act of 2017.
Speaking during the meeting, MEPA Director of Planning and Information Management Services, Dr. Martino Mazinga, called on the Rumphi District Environment Sub-Committee to take a leading role in ensuring that all institutions, organizations, and individuals implementing development projects in the district comply with the provisions of the Environment Management Act, 2017 and ESIA guidelines of 2025.
He further encouraged all stakeholders to work collectively in safeguarding the environment, noting that environmental protection is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated action at all levels.
On his part, Acting Director of Environment and Natural Resources for Rumphi District Council, Gift Nyirenda, reaffirmed the Council's commitment to working closely with MEPA in protecting and conserving the environment. He said the District Environment Sub-Committee will continue to support the Authority in promoting compliance with environmental laws and advancing sustainable environmental management.