Malawi College of Forestry and Wildlife Trains Vwaza Fence Attendants in Chainsaw Operation and Safety

Dedza, Malawi – The Malawi College of Forestry and Wildlife (MCFW), through its Further Training Unit (FTU), successfully conducted a Chainsaw Operator and Safety Training for fence attendants from Vwaza Wildlife Reserve. The training was sponsored by Total LandCare (TLC) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen conservation management and improve workplace safety in protected areas.

The training equipped participants with practical and theoretical knowledge in the safe operation, maintenance, and handling of chainsaws. Key areas covered included occupational health and safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), chainsaw maintenance, hazard identification, risk assessment, safe tree-felling techniques, cross-cutting, limbing, emergency procedures, and environmental considerations during chainsaw operations.

Fence attendants play a critical role in maintaining the wildlife fence that protects surrounding communities from human-wildlife conflict while safeguarding wildlife within the reserve. The newly acquired chainsaw skills will enable them to carry out vegetation clearing, fence maintenance, and emergency response activities more safely and efficiently.

Speaking during the training, the Coordinator of the Further Training Unit Aubrey Banda emphasized that proper chainsaw training is essential in reducing workplace accidents and improving productivity in forestry and wildlife operations. He commended Total LandCare for investing in capacity building that supports sustainable conservation and community safety.

The participants expressed appreciation for the practical nature of the training, noting that the knowledge and hands-on experience gained would significantly improve their day-to-day responsibilities in maintaining the reserve's perimeter fence.

Upon successful completion of the course, participants were awarded Certificates in Chainsaw Operator and Safety by the Malawi College of Forestry and Wildlife. MCFW is one of Malawi's leading institutions providing professional forestry and wildlife training, including competency-based short courses through its Further Training Unit. The college is mandated to provide high-quality training and consultancy services in sustainable forestry and wildlife management.

This training demonstrates the strong partnership between the Malawi College of Forestry and Wildlife, Total LandCare, and conservation stakeholders in promoting safe working practices, environmental stewardship, and effective management of Malawi's protected areas. The initiative also contributes to strengthening the capacity of frontline conservation personnel responsible for protecting both wildlife resources and neighbouring communities.