The delicate ecological balance of Matabeleland South is under severe threat as rampant charcoal production decimates the region’s iconic mopane trees. Local communities, driven by economic hardship and a high demand for charcoal, are cutting down mopane trees at an alarming rate, risking not only the environment but also their future livelihoods.
The trees also support the lifecycle of mopane worms, which are a critical source of protein for many Zimbabweans and are used as a popular relish. Speaking on the sidelines of an ecology workshop held in Harare recently, villagers and environmentalists said the appeal of quick profits from charcoal production has led many to forsake long-term benefits derived from the trees.
“I’ve never seen anything like this, people are cutting down mopane trees faster than they can grow back. It’s worrying because we depend on these trees, they provide us with amacimbi (mopane worms),” said Nkosilathi Sibanda a villager from Gwanda
The surge in charcoal production is linked to economic instability in the country. Many rural families, struggling to make ends meet, see charcoal as an accessible means of income. The growing urban demand for charcoal, as a cheaper alternative to electricity, exacerbates the problem.
Environmentalists are sounding the alarm. “The rate at which mopane trees are being harvested is unsustainable. If this continues, we’re looking at severe land degradation, loss of biodiversity, and a drastic decline in agricultural productivity,” warns Tapiwa Nyathi, a Bulawayo based ecologist
Efforts to curb the deforestation are underway, but they face significant challenges. Local authorities have implemented fines and are conducting awareness campaigns to educate communities on sustainable practices. Yet, enforcement remains a daunting task.
“We need more than just fines, people need alternative livelihoods. If we can provide them with other ways to earn money, we can save our forests and secure our future,” said Gracious Moyo of Plumtree.
