As one way of improving the livelihood of the communities surrounding Dzalanyama forest reserve, the project is working on improving biodiversity through climate resilient agriculture and biogas production. Under this objective, there were a number of activities that were conducted.

1.4.1     Manure Formulation Demonstration

On 5th July 2023, the project conducted a demonstration activity for the formulation of manure for climate resilient agriculture. The objective of the activity was to showcase the formulation of organic manure in preparation for irrigation farming and rainy season. A permaculture expert from the ministry of agriculture was consulted to assist in formulation of manure. The demonstration included the blending of organic materials into nutrient-rich manure which will be used in different farming activities.

With this knowledge, farmers were able to make their own organic manure from livestock manure blended with other organic materials and used them for this year farming activities. The organic manure made has helped many farms retain most and keep crops health despite the area and the country as a whole experiencing a prolonged dry spell this growing season. This has even motivated farmers to make more organic manure and use instead of inorganic fertilisers.

During one of the visits to the beneficiaries of goats in Dowa district. One fascinating story is about a woman who used goats manure to fertilize her tobacco. Her tobacco has thrived very well and she is expecting to earn more money through tobacco sales this year as prices are envisaged to be competitive on the market.