In December 2022, Central African Wilderness Safaris (CAWS) invited Children in the Wilderness (CITW) to conduct environmental education sessions at Mvuu Camp for the Eco-Clubs around Liwonde National Park. This is in line with the annual programme of children’s environmental camps that CAWS has supported and sponsored since 2003, after a break of some three years due to the disruptions caused by COVID-19.
The CITW teaching approach is For them to understand, so that they can appreciate, and then conserve. Accordingly, the theme of these Eco-Club visits to Mvuu Camp was The wildlife that I like most and want to know more about. The theme used Liwonde National Park as a case study.

CITW has over 170 former Eco-Club members (youth) from their primary school years. Many have become professionals while remaining committed to finding the time to teach children about wildlife and the environment. Chifundo is currently a professional safari guide working with CAWS at Mvuu Camp in Liwonde National Park.
Chifundo took the children through several lessons based on the theme. Each child was given a chance to stand in front of the others and name their favourite animal and provide a brief description of it to be best of their knowledge. After this, Chifundo took them on a game drive to give them more information. At the end of the day, each child did another drawing and spoke about the additional knowledge they gained by going on the drive and listening to Chifundo.
Chifundo, Chimwemwe and Florence (all now CAWS staff), together with the school teachers who accompanied the children, facilitated the learning sessions for the Eco-Clubs for three days.
Heartfelt thanks go to CAWS for this life-changing opportunity for the 45 children over three days. Their hosting included educational safaris (by vehicle, boat and in camp), and meals for the children and their teachers.
Report compiled by Symon Chibaka – Programme Co-ordinator, Children in the Wilderness Malawi
Date: 19/12/202