By Yamikani Yapuwa

Thyolo, September 27, Mana: National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) has urged Members of Parliament to lobby for the release of K70 billion to fund crucial farm input loans aimed at supporting medium-scale farmers across the country.

The appeal was made on Friday by NEEF Chief Executive Officer, Humphrey Mdyetseni, during a stakeholder consultative meeting with community leaders in Thyolo District, noting that there is increased demand for agricultural loans among farmers.

“The K70 billion is essential to meet the needs of approximately 400, 000 to 500, 000 farmers cultivating between five and more hectares of land,” he said.

“These farmers, according to government guidelines, do not qualify for the Affordable Input Programme which is reserved for smallholder farmers and have been directed towards NEEF for support.

“The K70 billion is based on our assessment of the demand for farm input loans,” Mdyetseni added.

He added that the legislators have a critical role in advocating for the fund recapitalization, which would provide farmers with the necessary inputs for the upcoming farming season.

“Given that this amount was not included in the approved national budget, we are appealing to parliamentarians to push for the approval of this request during the upcoming mid-year budget review meeting.

“We are calling on MPs, as part of the District Council, to champion this cause in Parliament and support the fund’s expansion to meet the needs of these farmers,” said Mdyetseni.

Member of Parliament for Thyolo North, Ephraim Nayeja echoed Mdyetseni’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of supporting agriculture, which is the backbone of Malawi’s economy.

Nayeja affirmed the legislature’s commitment to lobbying for the release of the K70 billion during budget deliberations.

“We are ready and willing to advocate for the funds. Enhancing productivity among these farmers is key to alleviating hunger and poverty in our communities,” Nayeja said.

He also stressed the need for lawmakers to raise awareness among their constituents about the importance of repaying their loans.

“This is a revolving fund. If loans are not repaid, others will miss out on the same support. Promoting a culture of repayment is essential for sustaining the programme,” added Nayeja.