By Shaffie A Mtambo
Malawi’s Minister of Agriculture, Samuel Kawale, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a consistent supply of inorganic fertiliser to smallholder farmers nationwide. This pledge was made during the official opening of the Khwakhwa Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC) depot in Dedza District.
The newly constructed depot, built at a cost of K46 million under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), is strategically located in the area of Senior Chief Chauma, making it easily accessible to local farmers. Kawale emphasized that the government has introduced a farm input loan program through the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF), allowing smallholder farmers to purchase more than two bags of fertiliser .
This initiative aims to promote commercialisation in the agricultural sector, ensuring that inputs are available throughout the year. Kawale urged farmers to utilise the fertiliser for its intended purpose, rather than selling it. Senior Chief Chauma and Dedza Central East Parliamentarian, Joshua Malango, both commended the government for bringing the ADMARC depot closer to the people, highlighting the importance of preserving the facility to maintain convenient access to subsidised farm inputs.
The government’s commitment to supporting smallholder farmers is part of its broader efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and food security in Malawi. By providing subsidised fertiliser and promoting commercialisation, the government aims to empower farmers and drive economic growth.
