By Mercy Matonga:
The government has said there is a need for close collaboration between the Malawi Environmental Protection Authority (Mepa) and stakeholders in safeguarding the country’s natural resources.
Speaking during the launch of Mepa’s four-year strategic plan in Lilongwe, Environment and Natural Resources Minister Michael Usi said the government is providing the environmental agency with the freedom to address challenges the country is facing while working towards preserving the environment.
“It is disheartening to see strategic plans not being followed or utilised. Sometimes, institutions blame politicians but, upon investigating, it is found that civil servants themselves are failing to fulfill their duties. Mepa, as an authority, should stand by its decisions,” Usi said.
On his part, Mepa Board Chairperson Robert Kafakoma pledged to ensure that the authority meets its vision and objectives.
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“We, as Mepa, are determined to go the extra mile to meet the demands placed upon us. We have already discussed this issue internally and are fully committed to the cause,” Kafakoma said.
He, however, bemoaned court injunctions, saying they affect implementation of some decisions.
Mepa, which was established under the Environment Management Act Number 19 of 2017, is a government institution responsible for the protection, sustainable management and utilisation of the environment and natural resources.
