Zutari’s water unit in Cape Town led the project, supported by local and international experts. The team spearheaded the development of national guidelines for integrated catchment area and rural infrastructure management in Malawi.

These guidelines were designed to help government departments, development partners, district offices, extension officers, village communities, and other stakeholders manage natural resources at a local scale. This approach encouraged both the government and landowners to participate in day-to-day catchment management to promote sustainable resource use.

Training formed a key part of the project. National, regional, district, and NGO staff were trained in applying the guidelines, learning about the ecosystem’s importance and how to manage environments holistically through a catchment management approach. Over 110 catchment management guidelines and a technical toolbox of practical “how-to” resources were developed.

More than 200 extension workers across Malawi received training to support their communities in developing action plans. These plans covered natural resource rehabilitation, prevention and management, as well as broader livelihood and social improvement areas, including health and education.