Raiply Malawi Forestry Manager, Nathaniel Nthala, says a total of 24 fires broke out in different parts of their concession area in the stated period.

“This year we did not anticipate any fires in the forest but just recently fire broke out in a number of areas in our concession area destroying over 1000 hectares of young trees that we now have to replant,” said Nthala.

Nthala said the concern is that the fires are deliberately sparked by poachers while others emanate from activities of people who walk into the forest to collect firewood.

“This is unfortunate. This company contributes a lot to the economy of the country through forex from sales of tree products,” he observed.

Inkosi Kampingo Sibande echoed sentiments raised by Nthala saying communities that surround the forest are direct beneficiaries of the company's corporate social responsibilities hence should have been helping protect the forest.

“I urge chiefs and communities to work hand in hand with Raiply in checking fires in the forest,” said the Inkosi.

The sentiments were raised this week when the company donated 100 desks worth over six million Kwacha to eight schools around Chikangawa educational zone in Mzimba district.

Head-teacher for Kasangazi Primary School, Chandiwira Chabing, said the desks would go a long way in promoting education in the zone especially among girls who were staying away because of lack of such facilities.