The Nyika Vwaza Trust
The Nyika-Vwaza Trust (NVT UK) is a charity supporting conservation in Nyika National Park and the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve, both located in north-western Malawi.
Aims of the Nyika Vwaza Trust:
- To promote the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural environment of the Nyika and Vwaza;
- To support the education of the public in the conservation of nature generally and, in particular, the environment of the Nyika and Vwaza;
- To act as an advocate for conservation of the Nyika, Vwaza and the surrounding communities at the local, national and international levels
We are the only trust solely dedicated to conserving the precious wildlife and habitats of Northern Malawi, in particular the Nyika National Park and the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve. Although protected by law, these are delicate ecosystems vulnerable to the ravages of fire and neglect through lack of financial resources.
What we do — with your support
Environmental Education
Between 2015 and 2022 NVT UK funded an Environmental Education Programme teaching school children and local communities the importance of the environment and the harmful consequences of poaching, deforestation and killing animals that raid crops. The programme was delivered by Lilongwe Wildlife Trust (LWT).
The Malawi Government has now formally recognised the importance of Environmental Education and is now working towards its inclusion in the curriculum for all primary schools.
A key part of the Environmental Education Programme was the development of material to be used in the primary schools in the project area. LWT have been requested by the Ministry of Education to adapt this material for use across the whole country. NVT have agreed to fund the initial phases of this work over the next 12 months, by when the material will have been adapted to meet the curriculum requirements and trailed in the communities around Nyika and Vwaza.
Research
In 2023 the Government of Malawi and Peace Parks Foundation signed a Co-Management Agreement to set up a Trust to manage the Nyika National Park and Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve. The Trust’s senior management team includes a Research Co-ordinator. NVT has agreed to fund this position from April 2024 to March 2027.
In addition, The Trust offers grants to research issues of significant conservation concern, to support environmental management in the Nyika and Vwaza. This programme plays an important role in developing the next generation of conservation professionals with the knowledge and skills to lead the conservation movement in Malawi.
Advocacy
We maintain a network of people interested in conservation in Northern Malawi, a website with information available to all, and hold an annual lecture evening.
Where can I learn more?
More details of these programmes are in our Newsletter, and on this website.
How can I get involved?
Please register as a Friend of The Trust and receive newsletters, updating you on our conservation programmes and on flora and fauna issues.
With your help, we can fund these programmes that fulfil our objectives.