By Harold Kapindu

The Movement for Environmental Action (MEA), in partnership with Creative Solutions for the Environment (CSE), will commemorate World Rain Day on July 29, 2020, through activities promoting green spaces and urban forests.

Planned Activities:

1. Awareness Through Art
   • Mvula Kolore – Traditional rain prayer song by Clifford and Collins. Watch here
   • Nzothekera – Song by Tigris on flood prevention. Listen here
   • Madzi ndi Moyo – Poem by Zinja on water’s value. Listen here
2. Digital Research Sharing
   • Disseminating research on rainfall variability and agriculture via blogs and social media.
3. Media Engagement
   • Interviews and discussions on Timveni and PL radio, and social media.

Theme: ‘Restore Our Earth’

This year’s event highlights the impact of unpredictable rainfall, causing droughts and floods.

Expert Commentary

Clifford Mkanthama, Conservation Arts official, emphasizes:

“Rain Day allows Malawians to reflect on past droughts and floods. As an agro-based economy, discussions on rainwater harvesting, climate-smart agriculture, and reforestation are crucial for smallholder farmers’ resilience.”

He also advocates for urban green spaces, which enhance sustainability and mitigate heavy rain impacts, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11).

Melvin Kamisa, CSE Volunteer Project Officer, adds:

“Rains are vital for plant and tree survival. Partnering with MEA helps raise awareness and encourage actions to ensure sufficient rainfall.”

Background

Rain sustains ecosystems and agriculture. The Earth Day Network established World Rain Day on July 29 to promote global awareness of its importance.