Fostering Biocultural Tourism and Co-governance in Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve, Malawi

Focus group discussion with 10 people sitting in the nature

Image courtesy of Hezekiah Namondwe

Image courtesy of Hezekiah Namondwe

Located in northern Malawi, Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve is home to diverse wildlife and the Ngoni and Tumbuka peoples, who have cultivated deep connections with the land for generations. Recognizing the value of Indigenous and local knowledge in biodiversity conservation, Malawi’s national ecosystem assessment integrates diverse knowledge systems to inform ecosystem management.

Through collaborative research and community engagement, the assessment highlights the role of traditional custodianship, cultural heritage and ecotourism in conservation efforts.