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Traditional leaders under the Chewa Kingdom of Eastern Province have banned the cultivation of Virginia Tobacco across all Chewa chiefdoms with immediate effect, citing environmental concerns and climate change.
The directive was announced during a meeting held on Friday, 17 July 2026, at Chanje Palace. Officials from COMACO, acting on behalf of Kalonga Gawa Undi, briefed headmen on resolutions adopted by Chewa chiefs during a meeting held in Mkaika, Katete, three months ago.
The resolutions, signed by Kalonga Gawa Undi, form part of broader efforts by the Chewa traditional leadership to conserve natural resources, protect forests and encourage sustainable environmental practices across all Chewa chiefdoms.
According to Chief Chanje, the traditional leaders agreed that the growing of Virginia tobacco should cease with immediate effect.
“The traditional leaders agreed that the growing of Virginia tobacco should cease with immediate effect, citing the environmental damage caused by the crop, particularly the destruction of forests through the curing process,” Chief Chanje said.
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The chiefs also resolved to reduce, and where necessary ban, the use of weed killers. They noted that excessive use of agricultural chemicals has contributed to increased health concerns among community members.
On forest management, Chief Chanje said new clearing will now require permission.
“No individual will be allowed to open new farming fields or cut down trees without obtaining written approval from the local chief and the Forestry Department,” he added.
The production of charcoal has also been prohibited, with offenders expected to face disciplinary action.
To promote environmental restoration, the chiefs directed that annual tree-planting activities should involve all stakeholders. These include chiefs, indunas, headmen, companies, section chairpersons, non-governmental organisations, schools, churches and health facilities.
Chief Chanje said traditional leaders will hold another meeting with headmen on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, to communicate and implement the resolutions in Chikuwe Chiefdom.
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