Zomba-Malosa Mountain Forest Reserve (28643)
Malawi, Africa
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Global KBA criteria: A1a, A1b, A2, B1, B4
Year of last assessment: 2025
National site name: Zomba Mountains
Central coordinates: Latitude: -15.2844, Longitude: 35.3113
System: terrestrial, terrestrial
Elevation (m): 1438 to 2087
Area of KBA (km2): 197.5163
Protected area coverage (%): 90.17
KBA classification: Global
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: The Forest Reserve consists of small patches of native montane and riverine forest and miombo woodland remain, especially on the Southwestern slopes. The Plateau is crisscrossed with a myriad paths, perfect for short and longer hikes, and offering breathtaking views. The forest is also comprised of Pine plantation which is used mostly for wood and timber production for the communities. Mulunguzi River, is source of water supply for Zomba town.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: The species that have triggered the KBA are Apalis flavigularis Criterion A1a, B1, Cymothoe zombana Criterion B1, Charaxes martini Criterion B1. Chamaetylas choloensis Criterion A1b. It is also composed of ecosystem type; Open Miombo Hills that triggered with criterion A2.
Additional biodiversity: It is a nature gem in Malawi, showcases a rich variety of biodiversity that enhances its ecological value. The reserve is a home to variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species such as the Xerophyta splendens and some terrestrial and epiphytic orchids species. The other endangered species includes Dalbergia melanoxylon, Prunus africana, Khaya anthotheca, Stephanoaetus coronatus and introduced critically endangered Widdringtonia whytei. In addition to its unique species, the reserve encompasses diverse ecosystems like montane forests, grasslands and riparian zones, each contributing to the areas ecological complexity and resilience. The presence of these habitats supports a wide range of wildlife, including birds, reptiles and insects, adding to the site's biological wealth. Moreover, the forest reserve provides critical ecosystems such as carbon sequestration, water purification and soil stabilization which are invaluable to the surrounding human communities and the overall health of the environment to the surrounding human communities and the overall health of the environment. These attributes underscore the importance of preserving the site, not only for its intrinsic biodiversity but also for its vital role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting sustainable development. It is also composed of ecosystem types; Afromontane Rain Forest With Other Forest And Wetlands (NT), Drier miombo woodland (CR), Lake Chilwa Catchment Rivers (CR), Mopane woodland and scrub woodland (EN) and Open Miombo Hills (EN). Apalis chariessa did not trigger the KBA.
Manageability of the site: Firstly, the reserves clearly defined boundaries and contiguous forest cover make it easier to implement and monitor cohesive conservation practices. The homogeneity of its ecological characteristics allows for the application of unified management strategies, essential for maintaining its biodiversity and ecological functions. Additionally, the active involvement of local communities, including the indigenous groups, in management efforts promotes sustainable use and conservation practices. These communities posses valuable traditional knowledge and have a vested interest in the long-term health of the forest, fostering a collaborative and effective management environment. Furthermore, the existing infrastructure and governance frameworks provide a solid foundation for coordinated management activities. By integrating ecological, social and administrative aspects, Therefore it can be effectively managed as cohesive conservation unit, ensuring the preservation of its rich biodiversity and ecological integrity for future generations.
Other site values: It encompasses land and water resources that are integral to the livelihoods of local indigenous communities. These communities including the Lhomwe and Yao ethnic groups, hold customary rights to the land and resources within and adjacent to the reserve. These rights are rooted in traditional practices and knowledge systems that have been passed down through generations, ensuring sustainable use and conservation of the forest resources. The involvement of these indigenous groups in the co-management of the forest reserve not only helps preserve their cultural heritage but also promotes biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Delineation rationale: The Zomba Mountain Forest Reserve was first established as a reserve in 1913. Before 1997, all reserves were being run on the colonial rules and regulations (Mauabeta, 2010). Legally, the Zomba Mountain Forest Reserve in Malawi was established based on the Forest Act 1997, Chapter 63:01 passed on 01 May 1997 and amended on 19 June 2020. There is government gazetteer that determines its boundary. The delineation defines its boundaries which are marked by natural landmarks such as rivers, roads and specific coordinates to protect the forests ecosystem and prevent encroachment.
https://www.fao.org/faolex/results/details/en/c/LEX-FAOC010025/
Habitats
Summary of habitats in KBA: It is composed of indigenous forest and pine plantations. The indigenous forest is combination of montane forests and grassland on the Zomba plateau while the Malosa Forest Reserve is largely covered by Miombo woodlands composed of Brachysteia and Julbernardia plant species.
Land use: Forest Reserve and Pine Plantations
| IUCN Habitat | Coverage % | Habitat detail |
|---|---|---|
| Forest | 94 | Forest – Subtropical/tropical moist lowland |
| Grassland | 6 | Grassland – Subtropical/tropical high altitude |
Threats
Summary of threats to biodiversity at KBA: Threats to the unique habitats include wild bushfires, anthropogenic pressure for firewood and timber, invasive alien species such as Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus ellipticus, Lantana camara and Pinus patula
| Threat level 1 | Threat level 2 | Threat level 3 | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human intrusions & disturbance | Work & other activities | Ongoing | |
| Invasive & other problematic species, genes & diseases | Invasive non-native/alien species/diseases | Named species | Ongoing |
| Residential & commercial development | Housing & urban areas | In the past but now suspended and likely to return | |
| Agriculture & aquaculture | Wood & pulp plantations | Scale Unknown/Unrecorded | Ongoing |
| Agriculture & aquaculture | Annual & perennial non-timber crops | Small-holder farming | Ongoing |
| Biological resource use | Hunting & collecting terrestrial animals | Unintentional effects (species being assessed is not the target) | |
| Biological resource use | Logging & wood harvesting | Intentional use: large scale (species being assessed is the target) [harvest] | Ongoing |
| Human intrusions & disturbance | Recreational activities | In the past but now suspended and likely to return |
Additional information
Contributors: Mr John Chipeta, Mr Jamestone Kamwendo, Dr Tionge Gawa, Mr Jimmy Mussa, Mr Nyson Gawanani.