By Golden Kang'oma

Salima, November 6, Mana: Salima District Executive Committee (DEC) has commended the Ulimi ndi Chilengedwe m'Malawi (UCHI) Project following a comprehensive briefing by the project’s steering committee.

The UCHI Project, which aims to foster sustainable economic growth and transformation within Malawi's food systems while prioritizing environmental conservation and resource management, is set to run from 2024 to 2030 with funding exceeding 50 million Euros and will be implemented across various districts, including Salima.

Briefing the committee on Tuesday, Madalitso Chatsika, an expert from the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) and a member of the project’s steering committee, highlighted key activities tailored for Salima district.

She noted the significant progress being made in enhancing food systems, nutrition, and sustainable agricultural practices within the communities.

“These initiatives include training programs for frontline agricultural workers and community-based learning support that promotes nutritional education and behavior change,” Chatsika said.

She added that establishing demonstration plots and organizing nutrition field days have increased community engagement and empowered local farmer organizations.

Salima District Council Director of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Natural Resources, Enford Kanyimbo praised the project’s integrated approach and emphasized its positive impact on vulnerable households, especially women and young children.

“The UCHI initiative, which builds on the past successes of the Kulima and Afikepo programs, will be instrumental in strengthening local food security and promoting environmentally conscious practices,” Kanyimbo said.

He underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among stakeholders to maintain these gains.

The briefing emphasized the project's alignment with national efforts to improve nutritional outcomes and promote sustainable agricultural growth.

UCHI project which is supported by UNICEF and funded by the European Union, will be implemented in Salima, Kasungu, Nkhotakota, and Kalonga, among other districts.