By Dalitso Kampira

Thyolo, February 6, Mana: Rutrand Farmers Cooperative Limited has introduced the Rural Transformation for Natural Development (Rutrand) project to farmers in Thyolo District to enable them boost agricultural yields by using the newly introduced organic fertiliser called, Chonde.

Rutrand Farmers Cooperative Limited unveiled the project during a District Executive Committee (DEC) meeting on Thursday as it presented its project plans to the executive committee members.

Speaking to Malawi News Agency (Mana) after the meeting, Rutrand Limited, Chief Executive Officer, Harold Njewa told Malawi News Agency (Mana) that his company is optimistic that Chonde fertiliser would help farmers to improve crop production.

“Chonde fertilizer is affordable to farmers. This product will help bridge the gap left by the Affordable Inputs Programme (AIP) and contribute to increased production in the district,” Njewa said.

He further said affordability will help complimenting government’s efforts of making Malawi food sufficient.

Njewa therefore thanked Thyolo District Council for approving the project, stating that Rutrand Farmers Cooperative Limited can meet farmers' demands.

Thyolo District, Director of Planning and Development, Thokozire Munthali, hailed the initiative saying it is a major step towards addressing food insecurity in the district.

“Food insecurity remains a major challenge in Thyolo due to the high cost of farm inputs, particularly fertiliser. With the introduction of Rutrand’s more affordable alternative, farmers will now have better access to inputs. I am sure this will increase food crop production thereby improving food security,” she added.

Similarly, Thyolo District Chief Agriculture Officer, Mphatso Kafuwa, commended Rutrand for launching the project, noting that the new fertilizer's composition and blend of organic and inorganic materials make it a sustainable option for farmers.

“As an agriculture office, we appreciate this initiative because fertiliser prices have been very high. This new type of fertiliser, combining both organic and inorganic elements, is a great solution,” she added.

The Rutrand project is being implemented in Ntcheu, Dedza, Zomba, Chiradzulu, Blantyre, Mulanje, and Thyolo, covering all Traditional Authorities and Extension Planning Areas.