By Gift Chiponde and Paul Madise
Lilongwe, November 25, Mana: Residents of Dedza district have been encouraged to make effective use of the inputs they procured through the 2024/2025 Agricultural Input Program (AIP) to achieve self-reliance and create wealth at the household level.
The appeal was made by Village Headman Solowa at the Bembeke Fertilizer depot, who emphasized the importance of the AIP in enhancing crop yields and addressing hunger in rural communities.
"It is important to acknowledge the government’s efforts through the Ministry of Agriculture. As beneficiaries, we have to utilize these initiatives to maximize crop productivity rather than selling them to vendors," said Solowa.
Salowa further urged beneficiaries to adopt modern farming methods to increase yields and that farmers should embrace good agricultural methods for them to realize enough yields.
"As government distributes fertilizer to all Malawians nationwide this season, I appeal to responsible beneficiaries to collaborate with the government in tackling food shortages in our communities," Solowa stated.
In his remarks, Village Group Leader Kadammanja from Traditional Authority (TA) Kamenyagwaza noted that the commencement of the AIP demonstrates government's commitment to reach the intended beneficiaries on time.
"We must recognize government's effort, as they have embarked on mass distribution of AIP resources across the country. This development is very encouraging. However, it is concerning that, some may misuse this initiative. Such malpractices are not tolerated in our communities because they lead to food insecurity," said Kadammanja.
Evijenia Maliteni, a beneficiary from T/A Kamenyagwaza, expressed her excitement after successfully purchasing two bags of fertilizer.
“I hope to harvest enough for my family and even have a surplus that can transform our lives through increased yields compared to last year," she stated.
Maliteni further said she has committed herself to effectively use AIP opportunity as a tool for achieving food security.
