Dzalanyama Forest Reserve is situated to the West and Southwest of Lilongwe.It is covered with miombo woodland that is one of the most commonforest type in savanna ecosystem.The reserve is gazetted as a Protected Forest Reserve and is very important for a acatchment area for the region.It provides all the water for Lilongwe through Kamuzu 1 and 2 dams.The reserve is also the main source of charcoal,fuel wood,poles and construction timber for the sorrounding villagers and the capital city.

The Reserve is facing major challenges and the woodlands are fast disappearing.The main challenges are
- Deforestation and forest degradation caused by illegal cutting of woodlands for charcoal and firewood production.
- Uncontrolled forest fires caused by charcoal burners,game poachers and honey collectors
- Poaching of game birds and smaller mammals
- Water resources depletion and degradation
- Water pollution from human activities

The projects specific objective is to improve sustainability of Dzalanyama Forest Reserve and indegenous trees.