Speaking to Zodiak, Nchima Security Manager, Benson Khondiwa, says the company is losing a lot of macadamia nuts, tea and trees to theft which is affecting their production and exports.

Khondiwa says currently, it is sad that some women are cutting green tea bushes for firewood.

This came out Wednesday when the company donated 300 reflector vests and 300 blowing whistles to the community policing members in Kabambe village in the district.

According to Khondiwa, this is why they thought of donating the items to the community policing members to guard against the malpractice in the district.

"You see so many of vendors selling macadamia along the streets and bus stages, that's not the case that the company is looking for. We are looking at sending these commodities to outside markets and get forex in the country. They need to be sold in proper channels for instance in shops where they pay tax or VAT. So, we are worried because those who come in to steal, they don't bring in VAT or forex," Khondiwa said.

Thyolo Police Officer In-charge, Ulemu Kalua, says together with the community policing members will step up efforts in protecting the company's property which is contributing to the country's economy.

"We need to protect macadamia and tea sold in the streets and neighboring cities by some boys which are stolen in estates. This is very bad. We are partnering with community to bring that to an end," Kalua said.

Chairperson for Nchiramwera Community policing, Omali Namigolo January, while asking the company to employ some members as a motivation, says "the donation is a booster in ensuring security for the estate's property".