In Malawi’s Kasungu District, Hope Mandala, the Managing Director of Futuristic Hope Action, is leading a transformative initiative that combines environmental conservation with economic empowerment.
His journey demonstrates how communities can build resilience and adapt to environmental challenges through collaboration and grassroots efforts.
From Education to Action: The Start of a Vision
Hope’s journey began in 2022 after attending the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice (NSSCJ) at Kenyatta University, Kenya. “The concept of green jobs and entrepreneurship struck a chord with me,” Hope recalls. “I returned home inspired to pursue an initiative that would address environmental challenges while also providing sustainable livelihoods for my community.”
Upon returning to Malawi, Hope founded a beekeeping initiative in Mponda Village with the goal of empowering local youth and women by equipping them with skills in honey production. The project started with five modern beehives, made possible with the support of Kenyan partners like James Kanyi, who contributed queen extruders to improve hive quality.
Beekeeping as a Pathway to Environmental Sustainability
This beekeeping initiative is more than just about honey production—it represents a broader effort to restore local ecosystems and create alternative livelihoods. “Our aim is to improve biodiversity and offer income-generating opportunities for marginalized groups, particularly women and youth,” Hope says. The initiative provides a solution to both environmental degradation and poverty in the region.
In addition to honey production, the project includes establishing nurseries for fruit and indigenous trees in the Mponda community forest. These efforts contribute to reforestation and help address the region’s deforestation issues.
Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience
Although the project has shown great potential, it has faced several challenges. “One of our biggest struggles has been securing the resources to expand, including materials for more beehives,” Hope admits. Some resistance from community members also posed an early obstacle. However, with continued community engagement and partnerships, Hope remains optimistic, seeking donor support to further grow the project.
Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Livelihoods
The initiative is already delivering tangible benefits. “Our first honey harvest produced five liters, and the second yielded 12 liters,” Hope shares. The income from honey sales has been reinvested into expanding the project, allowing more families to participate and benefit from a sustainable income source. For many, this is the first time they’ve had consistent, reliable earnings.
Lessons from the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice
Hope credits his time at NSSCJ with shaping his vision for the project. “The focus on green jobs and entrepreneurship gave me the tools I needed to understand how economic growth can be aligned with environmental stewardship,” he reflects. “It’s what inspired me to launch this initiative.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Hope envisions a future where local ecosystems are restored, and communities thrive through sustainable livelihoods. “My goal is to scale the project, establish more beehives, and continue educating the community about environmental conservation,” he says. He encourages young people to seek knowledge and take action in their communities, emphasizing that education, hard work, and collaboration are the keys to success.
Hope Mandala’s initiative is proof that grassroots efforts, combined with a focus on environmental sustainability, can empower communities to build resilience and adapt to ever-changing challenges.
Through beekeeping and reforestation, Hope is forging a path toward a more sustainable future for Malawi.
