Forestry Research Institute of Malawi

06/07/2026

03/07/2026

Forestry Research Institute of Malawi (FRIM) is implementing the forest monitoring component for Transforming Landscapes and Livelihoods Project (TLLP). One of the project's key activities is assessing the population, distribution and health of Tsanya (Colophospermum mopane) in Malawi.

As part of this effort, FRIM is conducting forest inventories in Mopane woodlands to measure the abundance of Tsanya, assess its condition and understand the extent of loss in its natural habitats. This work will help to inform the species's availability on international market and guide in conservation efforts.

In the picture: FRIM staff carrying out inventory in Liwonde National Park.

25/06/2026

Forestry Research Institute of Malawi staff attended an orientation on the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Letter of Agreement (LoA) held on 24 June 2026 at FRIM.

The Letter of Agreement covers technical implementation and financial management modalities for the Transforming Landscapes and Livelihoods Project (TLLP). This project is funded by FAO and will support the sustainable management of forests and community livelihoods across miombo and other dry woodlands.
The session aimed at strengthening FRIM staff understanding of LoA requirements, reporting procedures and financial controls to ensure transparent and effective project delivery. The facilitators were Aaron Msukwa, Masida Mwale and Harrington Nyirenda from FAO-Malawi

At the end of orientation session, the Deputy Director of Forestry-Research, Michael Chirwa thanked FAO for their continued partnership and support. He assured FAO representatives that FRIM will comply with all requirements for the successful implementation of the project.

18/06/2026

Today was a special day at the Forestry Research Institute of Malawi (FRIM) as we bid farewell to Mr. Francis Chilimampunga, Senior Deputy Director of Forestry Research and Mrs. Constance Khozombwe, Senior Assistant Accountant, as they enter a well deserved retirement after years of dedicated service.

In his remarks, Mr. Chilimampunga thanked FRIM staff for the support and cooperation they gave him throughout his time as Head of the Institution. He expressed his appreciation for the teamwork and dedication that contributed to the institute's achievements. He encouraged FRIM staff to continue fostering cooperation, unity and love among themselves for the continued success of the institution.

Speaking during the farewell ceremony, Deputy Director of Forestry Research, Mr. Mike Chirwa commended Mr. Chilimampunga for his outstanding contributions and achievements during his tenure. He wished both Mr. Chilimampunga and Mrs. Khozombwe a happy retirement as they embark on a new chapter.

Their dedication, professionalism and commitment have left a lasting impact on FRIM. Though their years of service they have contributed significantly to the growth and success of the institution. They have inspired many through their hard work and leadership.

We thank them for their dedicated service and wish them good health, happiness and success in their future endeavors.

16/06/2026

Forestry Research Institute of Malawi (FRIM) with support from the FAO-funded Transforming Landscapes and Livelihoods Project (TLLP) is currently conducting a nationwide mapping exercise of Colophospermum mopane habitats, locally known as Tsanya tree. Tsanya (mopane) tree is one of Malawi's valuable indigenous tree species but is increasingly under pressure from deforestation and other land-use changes. Mapping exercise is intended to establish a clear national baseline on the species distribution and the status of mopane populations across the country.

The ongoing mapping exercise is expected to provide a foundation for Tsanya species inventories aimed at determining the abundance and condition of mopane tree populations in their natural habitats. The findings will support evidence based planning and decision making for the sustainable management and conservation of mopane trees in Malawi.

FRIM teams have successfully mapped mopane stands in the Southern Region, Eastern parts of the country and parts of the Central Region. The exercise is continuing until all potential mopane growing areas have been covered. District forestry staff, local communities and officers from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife have also provided invaluable knowledge and support in identifying previously undocumented mopane stands.

FRIM and the Department of Forestry remain committed to generating scientific evidence that supports the sustainable management, conservation and protection of indigenous woodlands in Malawi.

16/05/2026

Deep in the dry lakeshore forests of Mangochi grows Strophanthus kombe, commonly known as Kombe. It is a climbing vine that has been used for generations in traditional medicine and was once known for its use in poisoned hunting spears.

Recently, our team conducted a six day survey with support from the Malawi Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA) and Transforming Landscapes and Livelihoods Project (TLLP). The team found that the plant is becoming rare. In some areas, only a few mature vines remain due to wildfires and charcoal production. The plant depends on large trees especially baobabs (Malambe) to survive. When those trees are cut down the vine also disappears.
Interestingly, some of the healthiest plants were found in graveyards where trees are protected and left undisturbed. This story is bigger than one plant. It reflects the growing loss of Malawi’s forests, traditional knowledge and natural heritage.

Local groups like Zankhalango Association in Mangochi are already helping to protect these species but more support is needed to conserve these forests and create sustainable opportunities for communities.

If we lose plants like Strophanthus kombe, we lose part of our history too.

Have you ever seen this vine before? Share your thoughts below.

05/05/2026

The Forestry Research Institute of Malawi (FRIM) together with InterAide Malawi is leading a multi‑year initiative to restore Nauclea nyasica (Mbvule) in Phalombe District. Nauclea nyasica is an endangered hardwood tree that plays a vital role in Malawi's ecosystems and local livelihoods. As part of this work, FRIM recently held hands on training for InterAide staff and lead farmers in Phalombe. The training focused on seed selection, collection, processing, sowing and nursery management.

The team also tackled real challenges like low seed viability and poor germination rates. This initiative highlights FRIM's commitment to advancing research, building local capacity as well as delivering practical solutions.

One seed at a time, let's bring Malawi's forests back to life.

22/04/2026

The Human Resource Management Section at the Forestry Research Institute of Malawi (FRIM) on 22 April, 2026 conducted a sensitization meeting with staff aimed at enhancing individual performance across the institution. The session focused on strengthening staff capacity, promoting a clear understanding of performance expectations and ensuring that all requirements for the performance appraisal process are effectively met. This initiative reflects FRIM’s continued commitment to excellence, accountability and professional development.

22/04/2026

Frank Mkwaila (Policy and Partnership Specialist) and Sibusiso Kamanga (Programs Manager) from One Acre Fund recently visited Forestry Research Institute of Malawi (FRIM) to explore new opportunities for collaboration. The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in tree seed supply and enhancing community involvement under the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The engagement reaffirmed a shared commitment to knowledge sharing, capacity building and continuous improvement in order to strengthen sustainable tree growing initiatives.