Launching 28 August 2026
The CBNRM Forum is the national umbrella network of Community Co-Management Associations working across governance, conservation, livelihoods, and rights, equity and justice in and around Malawi's protected areas.
The new CBNRM Forum launches
28 August 2026, 00:00 CAT — new brand mark, full website, member directory and resource library.
Our footprint
Community members represented across our member associations
Forest under community co-management arrangements
Restoration in protected area buffer zones
Restoration on customary land held by communities
Four pillars
Every member association works across four connected pillars — the basis of the Forum's national mandate.
Strengthening community structures so decisions about land, forests, water and wildlife are made with communities, not for them.
Protecting forests, wildlife, fisheries and water resources through community-led stewardship of protected areas and their buffer zones.
Building income from well-managed resources — beekeeping, agroforestry, fisheries, and enterprise linked to conservation outcomes.
Defending community rights over natural resources, and making sure women, youth and marginalised groups hold real decision-making power.
Who we are
The CBNRM Forum brings together Community Co-Management Associations from across Malawi. Our structure runs from Village Natural Resource Committees, through Zone Natural Resource Committees, to an elected Executive Committee and a Board of Trustees — so national representation stays accountable to the communities who manage the resources.
Read about our governanceForestry & Land Management
Associations co-managing forest reserves, woodlots and customary land restoration.
Wildlife & Conservation
Associations working with national parks and wildlife reserves on co-management and coexistence.
Fisheries & Water Resources
Beach village committees and associations managing lake, river and catchment resources.
Community Livelihoods
Associations focused on nature-based enterprise, agroforestry and income diversification.
Policy & Advocacy
Members engaging national policy processes on community rights and co-management law.
Where we work
Member associations operate in and around protected areas across the Northern, Central and Southern regions — from forest reserves and wildlife corridors to lakeshore fisheries and customary land.
Partners & funders
Partner with the Forum, fund a member association, or join our network ahead of the 28 August 2026 launch.
