By Sheminah Nkhoma

Mchinji, February 22, Mana: President Dr Lazarus Chakwera  has emphasised  on the need  for more financial investment in the agriculture sector to  address issues of persistent food shortages in the country.

Speaking at Lombwa Farm in the area  of Senior Chief Mkanda in Mchinji where he went to inspect his farm, Chakwera said it is possible for Malawi to be a hunger free nation only if the private and public sectors work together to promote and finance agriculture projects.

He said there is need for collaborative efforts to make sure that farmers have access to loans for them to boost their agricultural production.

Chakwera stated that as a president he wants to lead by example that is why he has invested in agriculture to make sure that commercial farming, aimed at ending hunger in the country, is promoted.

“With the help NBS Bank, I was able to finance my farm. I, therefore, urge all banks in the country to supporti farmers,” said Chakwera.

Minister of Agriculture, Sam Kawale, said the mega farm has helped to create about 500 jobs for people around the area.

He called on for more support to help in the mega farm initiative saying it is helping ensure that the country is food secure.

NBS Bank Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kwanele Ngwenya, said as a Bank  it is important to finance mega farm project because agriculture is one of the important sectors in the country.

He, therefore, urged all farmers to be working with the Bank to promote food security.

Lombwa Farm has a total of 1,000 hactares and out of this 400 hectares has been cultivated to grow maize.

A total of 722 people across the country have benefited from the mega farm initiative.