• Alice  Kumunda

From charcoal hustle to entrepreneurial success: Hassan Bakali's transformational journey.

"Life was tough. I used to burn charcoal to make ends meet, constantly fearing government laws. Despite my efforts, providing for my five children was a daily struggle, now, I can proudly say life is different. I am grateful to CARD for opening doors to tangible business opportunities. I am not just providing for my family; I am now the pillar of my household," shares Hassan Bakali, a father of five from Group Village Machinjiri, Traditional Authority Malemia in Zomba District.

For years, charcoal production was Hassan`s only means of survival, but it came at a great cost to the environment and his peace of mind. With deforestation accelerating in his community and government regulations tightening, the risks of continuing the trade grew, yet so did his desperation to provide for his family.

Today, Hassan`s life is a story of transformation, resilience and hope. His turning point came when the "Community-led Planning and Management for Biodiversity Protection and Resilient Communities" project arrived in his community.

This innovative project, supported by Trocaire, Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA) and the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF), among others, empowers communities to shift from environmentally harmful activities to sustainable and profitable livelihoods while restoring biodiversity in the Lake Chilwa catchment area.

Hassan joined the Machinjiri Village Natural Resources Management Committee, a community-driven group formed as part of the project. Together, they ventured into honey production and afforestation among other interventions under the project, sustainable enterprises that benefit the environment and the community.

The group`s honey business has been a resounding success, generating impressive sales of almost K912,000. This achievement led to the establishment of a revolving fund, enabling members to borrow money to invest in their businesses.

"I borrowed K50,000 from our group fund, which helped me start a fish business and repair my bicycle, these improvements have made it easier to run my business and take care of my family," Hassan explained.

With his fish business thriving, Hassan has not only achieved financial stability but also found the confidence and resources to plan for his children's education and a better future.

The project`s focus goes beyond individual success stories. By targeting key rivers in Zomba, Machinga and Phalombe, the initiative aims to protect the Lake Chilwa ecosystem, which is vital for both biodiversity and the livelihoods of surrounding communities.

Communities like Machinjiri are now active participants in safeguarding natural resources, planting trees and adopting sustainable practices, ensuring the benefits extend to future generations.

Hassan`s journey from charcoal burning to becoming a thriving entrepreneur is a shining example of how community-driven initiatives can create meaningful change. His story underscores the importance of integrating economic empowerment with environmental conservation.

"I used to fear the future, but now I face it with hope and determination," Hassan says, smiling. "I am no longer just surviving, I am thriving." Hassan shared with a smile.