By Burnett Munthali
Beneficiaries of the Affordable Inputs Programme (AIP) in Nathenje and Nanjiri, Lilongwe, have hailed the implementation of the 2024/2025 AIP as a transformative opportunity for their communities, particularly in terms of food security and enhanced livelihoods. This development coincides with the government’s nationwide rollout of the AIP, which aims to support a large number of smallholder farmers across Malawi by providing affordable agricultural inputs to improve productivity and self-reliance.
Stephano Kachelenga, a beneficiary from Makhwa Village in the area of Traditional Authority (TA) Kalumba, expressed his deep gratitude for being included in this year’s AIP. Reflecting on past farming seasons, Kachelenga shared that he had previously relied on organic fertilizers, which limited his yields. However, with his inclusion in the AIP, he believes that he will be able to boost his productivity and contribute to greater food security for his family.
“This is my first time being part of the AIP beneficiaries, and I am grateful that the government has considered me for this initiative,” Kachelenga said. “With the inputs provided through the programme, I’m confident that if we experience favorable rainfall patterns, I will achieve a bumper harvest.”
Kachelenga further encouraged other beneficiaries to make the most of the support they have received and use the inputs responsibly. He emphasized that the ultimate goal of the AIP is to improve food security, increase agricultural production, and foster self-reliance at the household level, which would benefit the entire community.
Daleni Chiseka, another beneficiary from Njole Village in TA Kalumba, spoke at the Nanjiri depot and expressed her satisfaction with the AIP implementation. Chiseka, who is an active farmer, is hopeful that the distribution of inputs will lead to positive outcomes for the farming community, given the large number of active farmers in the area.
“I am optimistic that this distribution will bring positive results. Many of us here are farmers, and we rely on agriculture for our livelihood,” Chiseka said. “This programme will make a difference in how we produce food for our families and the wider community.”
Mathews Laurent Phiri, a sales clerk at the Nathenje depot, provided an overview of the AIP distribution process. He highlighted the discipline and cooperation demonstrated by community members, which has facilitated the smooth implementation of the programme. According to Phiri, since the commencement of the AIP, the sales team has been able to efficiently provide inputs to beneficiaries.
“We are committed to ensuring that all AIP protocols are followed, and every beneficiary receives the inputs they need during selling hours,” Phiri explained. “Currently, we are assisting over 100 beneficiaries daily, working closely with Village Development Committees (VDCs) to ensure that no one is left out.”
The AIP, which provides subsidized inputs such as fertilizers and seed, is aimed at improving agricultural productivity, reducing food insecurity, and supporting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. As the government continues its efforts to roll out the programme nationwide, beneficiaries in Nathenje and Nanjiri remain hopeful that it will significantly contribute to their agricultural success and overall community development.
With the positive feedback from beneficiaries such as Kachelenga and Chiseka, it is clear that the Affordable Inputs Programme is making a meaningful difference in the lives of smallholder farmers, helping to pave the way for improved food security and a more self-sufficient rural economy.
