When nearly 100 cyclists set off from Blantyre at around 7:00am on 6 June 2026, they were not simply beginning a long ride to Mulanje. They were carrying a message of urgency and hope — that Malawi’s environment is worth protecting, and that collective action can make a measurable difference.
The initiative, known as Cycle for Environment, was spearheaded by the Malawi Environmental Endowment Trust (MEET) in partnership with environmental and natural resource management organizations, including the Coordination Union for Rehabilitation of the Environment (CURE). The event combined World Environment Day commemorations with a fundraising drive aimed at supporting community scouts who protect Michiru Mountain — Blantyre’s last remaining green mountain.
Michiru Mountain continues to face increasing pressure from deforestation, charcoal burning, illegal poaching, and sand mining. Despite these threats, community scouts have remained on the frontline of protection, often working under difficult conditions with limited resources, equipment, and welfare support. The fundraising initiative is intended to strengthen their capacity through improved incentives, training, equipment, and livelihood support.
The cyclists traveled along the Thyolo Road, passing through busy trading centres where they engaged communities with environmental awareness messages. The journey became more than a sporting activity; it evolved into a mobile conservation campaign, bringing environmental education directly to people living closest to fragile ecosystems.
Cycling champion Stewart Kambewa, who led the group, emphasized the broader meaning of the initiative and the role of cycling in promoting sustainability. He noted that the World Bicycle Day theme, “Cycling for a Greener Future,” reflects global recognition of cycling as both a sport and a climate-friendly mode of transport that supports environmental awareness.
Upon arrival at Mulanje Golf Club, participants, partners, and stakeholders gathered for a closing ceremony marked by speeches, reflections, and a raffle draw featuring prizes such as a mountain bike, accommodation vouchers, meal coupons, and branded merchandise.
MEET Board Governance Chairperson Lyson Kampira expressed appreciation to all cyclists, sponsors, and partners for supporting the initiative and demonstrating commitment to environmental conservation. He highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in protecting natural resources.
Delivering the keynote address, Nico Asset Managers Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Dunga drew attention to the link between environmental protection and long-term economic value. He emphasized that planting trees and avoiding environmental destruction remain among the most effective investments individuals and societies can make.
Speaking on behalf of Michiru’s community scouts, John Mailosi shared a candid account of progress and challenges. He noted that illegal activities such as deforestation, poaching, and sand mining have declined due to enforcement efforts. However, he also highlighted ongoing welfare challenges, including limited support for scouts who often sacrifice their own livelihoods to protect the mountain. He revealed that scout numbers have declined from 320 to 125, underscoring the need for stronger support systems to sustain their work.
Representatives from the Mulanje District Commissioner’s office and partner organizations also emphasized the importance of coordinated, cross-sectoral action in environmental management, reinforcing the shared responsibility of protecting natural resources.
MEET National Coordinator, Karen Price expressed satisfaction with the success of the event, describing it as a revival of an initiative that should become an annual fixture. She noted that the funds raised would help build a sustainable support mechanism for Michiru’s frontline scouts and committed to continued engagement with partners and sponsors to strengthen the initiative in future editions.
By the end of the event, approximately MK9 million had been raised toward an initial target of MK40 million. The funds will be managed through a dedicated trust fund under MEET to support the welfare and operations of community scouts safeguarding Michiru Mountain. Fundraising efforts remain ongoing.
The Cycle for Environment initiative was introduced to the wider civil society network by MEET, which mobilized partners including CURE to support organization, coordination, and participation. CURE played a key role in logistics, publicity, and on-the-ground coordination along the route, helping ensure strong visibility and effective delivery of the event. CURE’s Advocacy and Communications Officer, Precious Chimkande, served as Chair of the Organizing Committee and also hosted the closing ceremony at Mulanje Golf Club, guiding proceedings and the raffle draw.
The ride from Blantyre to Mulanje marked more than a physical journey. It symbolized a growing movement of collaboration between civil society, communities, and the private sector in defending Malawi’s environment. For MEET and its partners, the effort represents an ongoing commitment — one pedal stroke at a time — toward safeguarding Michiru Mountain for future generations
