By Patricia Kapulula

Lilongwe, August 8, Mana: Stakeholders in the agriculture sector have been called upon to improve on coordination and maximise on the benefit of sharing data in order to address repetition of same activities at the expense of others.

Digital Innovations Lead for Solidaridad Southern Africa, Candice Kroutz-Kabongo told journalists in Lilongwe on Wednesday along the side lines of the FANRPAN Annual Multistakeholder Policy Dialogue that although requirements for farmers to provide data has increased over the years, coordination among organisations in as far data sharing is concerned has not yet been maximised.

She proposed an open farm data ecosystem where stakeholders within the agriculture sector can share the data they collect.

“The level of duplication of efforts and consequent lack of impact for those efforts is the problem that we need to address through data sharing.

“We are spending our resources repeating same activities across organisations when there are others that need to be done such as climate shocks and early warning systems,” she said.

Kvuno Country Operation Lead for Malawi and Mozambique, Igo Manuel, appealed to stakeholders to have a holistic view of farmers they support and make decisions that benefit those farmers.

He said it is for this reason that coordination in the sector is important as it can bring the cost of operation down for everyone hence benefitting the people they serve.

“We want to showcase how we can share data across various organisations so that we can maximise efforts. So, we believe that Kvuno is practical and real case of what can be done with open data sharing platform,” he said.

Solidaridad and Kvuno developed digital farmer identity with each farmer that works with them. The farmer ID captures all the information about the farmer such as their name, what crops they cultivate and how much they are making selling those crops.

Given Phiri, Programs Manager for Kvuno Malawi, said farmers can benefit a lot through digital.

“Kvuno is here to showcase to farmers that, through digital, they can find markets and messages on how to improve farming.

“Malawi has started paying cotton farmers through the bank which has proved safe and successful as it has no risks both to the buyer and farmer,” Phiri said.

According to Phiri, Malawi has reached out to 816 farmers involved in cotton seed multiplication in Salima, Nkhotakota and some parts of Balaka with digital services.

Kvuno, is a social inclusive business that utilises digital tools and technology to empower smallholder farmers for wealth creation through farming.

Solidaridad introduced Kvuno, incorporating its interventions, shaping the relationship with farmer-facing organisations.

By Andrew Phiri

Balaka, August 8, Mana: Police in Balaka have arrested ten people whose ages range from 18 to 78 years, suspected to have committed various offences in the district.

Balaka Police Station Public Relations Officer, Gladson M'bumpha said the suspects were arrested on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 during an intelligence driven operation conducted within Balaka town and surrounding areas.

“Among the arrested suspects, five have been arrested for theft by servant, three for theft, one for receiving stolen property and another one for fraud and the other one for false pretense,” he said.

M'bumpha added that meanwhile, police have recovered some of the stolen property such as Aluminum conducting wires whose value is yet to be established.

All the suspects hail from Balaka district and will appear before court soon to answer charges leveled against them, according to M’bumpha.

By Patience Longwe

Lilongwe, August 8, Mana: In the heart of Malawi's Zomba and Mangochi districts, small and medium enterprise farmers are witnessing a remarkable transformation thanks to the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Institute (SMEDI) and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), together with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), who are turning their visions into reality, aligning with Malawi's 2063 vision of becoming an industrialized upper-middle-income country.

Chipiliro Mpumira, a determined farmer from Chitenjere 1 village in Zomba Malosa under Traditional Authority Malemia, embarked on her banana farming journey in 2023. Despite her aspirations, challenges like limited land and encroachment of animals hindered her progress. However, training from SMEDI and a grant from CIAT with USAID's help changed everything.

"With the grant, I was able to fence my farm and expand my land. Now, my banana sucker production has significantly increased," Chipiliro shared, beaming with pride. Her story is a testament to how targeted financial support and training can unleash the potential of small-medium-scale farmers.

Thokozani Nkhambure, from Nsangeni village in Zomba, T/A Malemia, once a fresh vegetable seller, now manages Inozandi fish farm. The transformation in her business is profound.

"Before SMEDI, CIAT's, and USAID's intervention, I struggled with insufficient funds and could only manage a small fishing pond. Now, I've added more ponds and materials, and the business skills training has equipped me to compete effectively and plan strategically," she said.

Despite these gains, Nkhambure highlighted a persistent challenge; sourcing fish feed: "We don't have local shops selling fish feed, so we have to get it from Lilongwe and Blantyre, which strains our budget," she explained. Yet, her resilience and resourcefulness remain unwavering.

Rita Kumweda, from Matawale in Zomba, T/A Mwambo, who runs Para Enterprise, focuses on mushroom farming. The grant she received allowed her to complete a mushroom house and acquire essential equipment.

"Since February, we've been harvesting up to 20 packs of mushrooms daily, and we're now supplying major shops. I owe this success to SMEDI, CIAT, and USAID," said Rita, reflecting on her journey from a small-scale farmer to a successful entrepreneur.

Chisomo Chimkondenji from Kalonga village in Mangochi, T/A Mponda, ventured into a nursery school called Historic Academy.

"The training taught me how to keep records whether I am making profits or not. All thanks to SMEDI, CIAT, and USAID for the grant. I have built these three blocks where children are learning, and it has helped me to open a Facebook page where I can reach out by marketing to people around Mangochi and other areas," shared Chisomo.

Rashion Nikisi from Namwera Village in Mangochi, T/A Jalasi, owner of Rahawe Bee Farming, embarked on his bee farming journey in 2011. His farming progress was hindered facing challenges like people cutting down trees and stealing honey from his hives. However, training from SMEDI and a grant from CIAT and USAID changed everything.

"With the grant, I was able to buy materials that I use when processing the honey," he said.

Sharon Kumwembwe, Assistant Youth Officer for Zomba District Council, emphasized the broader impact of these initiatives.

"In an era of high unemployment, this program has provided a platform for youth to showcase their capabilities. They're now entrepreneurs and CEOs, having gained essential skills, knowledge, and market exposure," she noted.

Kumbukani Manda, Mangochi District Youth Officer, highlighted the importance of accelerating youth self-help initiatives as one of a kind in Mangochi since the district has a high unemployment rate.

"We believe that such initiatives are the only way to improve and empower the youth economically," said Manda.

SMEDI's Board Chairperson, Henry Chete, highlighted the unique approach of providing grants alongside training.

"After the training, grants enabled the youth to purchase materials, install irrigation systems, and more. Their success stories are a testament to the program's impact," he said.

Overall, 74 participants from various Traditional Authorities in Zomba and Mangochi have been trained in design thinking, climate-smart business models, marketing, communication, pitching, and business plan development. Grants up to MWK4.2 million from CIAT have further empowered them.

The support from SMEDI and CIAT aligns seamlessly with Malawi's 2063 vision, emphasizing inclusive wealth creation and sustainable economic growth. By investing in small-scale farmers, these organizations are not only improving individual livelihoods but also fostering a future where agriculture plays a pivotal role in the nation's economic transformation. As these farmers continue to thrive, their stories inspire a broader movement towards agricultural productivity and commercialization, showcasing the power of strategic support and the indomitable spirit of Malawi's small-medium-scale farmers.

By Moses Nyirenda

Lilongwe, August 7, Mana: Resurrection Independent Fundamentalist Baptist Church says it is set to host its crusade dubbed ‘Truth conference’ slated for August 11-16, 2024 at its campus in Lilongwe, Area 49.

Evangelist for the church, Noa Gustav Viljami Lager told Malawi News Agency (MANA) in an interview on Wednesday that the conference has been organized to preach about the truthful words of Jesus Christ stipulated in the bible.

“Jesus himself says I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. During this conference, 9 different preachers from all across the world will shine the light on fundamental truths of the Bible, all centered on the Lord Jesus Christ.

“We expect every single conference attendee to leave with better knowledge of the truth, and to be encouraged to follow Jesus in their day to day lives,” Lager said.

He added that during the conference there will be praises to Jesus Christ through singing and prayers with two preachers each night expounding the truth of God’s word to the participants of the conference.

He also said that through the conference, his church will also be spreading the gospel of salvation, which was offered as a free gift to all through Jesus Christ’s death on the cross.

According to him, the conference will be graced by preachers from various countries including; Malawi, United States of America (USA), Uganda, Nigeria and Sweden.

He further called upon the public to patronize the conference in their large numbers saying that the conference will be life changing.

“You will not only learn the truth of God’s word, but you will be fully immersed in the fellowship of the brethren and a loving church community, we are excited to see you there,” he said.

One of the Lilongwe residents, Caroline Phiri commended the forthcoming truth conference saying that it would assist people to know more about the gospel of Jesus Christ.

By Peter Magawa

Mzuzu, August 7, Mana: Children in Mzimba district have cited shortage of teaching and learning materials and discrimination as major hindrances to attaining education for all in the district.

Speaking in Mzuzu City on Wednesday during a panel discussion organized by stakeholders ahead of commemoration of Day of African Child scheduled for 9th August, 2024, the children noted there was need for government and other stakeholders to be proactive in providing necessary needs for education for all to be achieved.

Miracle Chaputa, a learner at MZUZU C.C.A.P. Primary School said that there is need for government to train more special need teachers so that learners with special needs can also have an opportunity to learn.

"Due to shortage of teachers and schools, learners travel long distances. Now imagine a child on a wheelchair traveling a distance of over five kilometers on a wheelchair, how can he or she continue with school?

"At the same time, in these schools there is shortage of books and classrooms. In most schools you find that a class has over 80 learners and 10 learners using one text book. We need to rectify these challenges if education for all must be achieved," said Chaputa.

Another learner, Warren Mhango from Viyere Primary School noted that while government did well on allowing all children to learn together regardless of their respective challenges, learners with special needs continue to face discrimination from both teachers and fellow learners.

"The school environment needs to be conducive for all learners including those with special needs," she said.

Chairperson for Mzimba North Child Protection Committee, Nthezemu Kamanga said it is everyone's responsibility to ensure that all children have equal access to education.

"We are working with the theme: ‘Education for all in Malawi: the time is now’ because we no longer want to postpone the idea of giving access to education for all. It is something that must be acted upon now.

"As stakeholders we are ready to work together with government to eradicate all hindrances to achieving equal opportunities to education," said Kamanga.

Director of Education Services in Mzimba North, Mercy Mayuni, assured of continued support to ensure schools in the district mitigate challenges faced in the process of delivering education services.

By George Mponda

Karonga, August 8, Mana: In a bid to bolster their squad before the second round of the TNM Superleague kicks off, Karonga United Football Club (FC) has announced the signing of two new players from the Simso league.

Speaking in an interview after the signing ceremony on Thursday, Karonga United Chief Executive Officer, Ramsay Simwaka said it is the club’s policy to be signing raw talent from the lower leagues, nurture and then sell them.

"One is 21-year-old Neverson Nkhoma, a defender from Iponga FC and the other is 20-year-old Ernest Mwenitete, a striker from Chicago FC. Both have signed three year contracts.

“We have two very exciting and young players in our ranks for the second round and both players will help us to take our game to the next level which will be crucial for our success in the season,” Simwaka said.

He added that fans should also expect two or three new players who will also be signed.

On his part, James Kayira, a Karonga United fan said mixing young players with experienved players will help balance them.

“Young players have strength and mixing this with experience, combined with Blessings Mwalilino’s proven goal scoring abilities, will further strengthen our team and I wish them the best in the season," said Kayira.

Karonga United FC are currently on position 11 with 19 points having played 15 games in the TNM Superleague.

They will next face league leaders Silver Strikers on August 10 at Karonga stadium.

By George Mponda

Karonga, August 8, Mana: Members of Luwonya Cooperative from Group Village Head Mwashunguti in the area of Senior Chief Mwirang'ombe have said investing the wages they receive in Community Savings and Investment Promotion (COMSIP) has made them financially secure.

Speaking on Tuesday during a media tour, Community Facilitator for Luwonya Cooperative Tereza Ngwira said by investing part of the money they receive after each cycle under the Climate Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme (CS-EPWP) they have made profits through groundnut sales.

Ngwira said: "Our cooperative has 47 members of which 28 are women and 19 are men of which most are also participants of CS-EPWP in Thabiro Micro Catchment. Together, we grew groundnuts and managed to harvest 750 tins which we have sold at MK10, 000 each and we made MK7.5 million."

"The profits from this were shared among members and I have used my portion to buy a new farm and iron sheets which I will use to construct a new house. I also started a successful bakery business through the money I receive from my shares in the cooperative and am using that to pay school fees for my daughter,” she added.

Another member, Maggie Kapira hailed CS-EPWP for enabling her to be in charge of her income generating activities.

"At the end of each year, we receive money from my CS-EPWP wages which I invest in COMSIP. I used to sleep on a mat but now I bought a bed, mattress and goats with this money,” she said.

On her part, Flora Mwangayiro a COMSIP case worker in Thabiro catchment said they encouraged participants of CS-EPWP to join COMSIP in order for them to be sustained even after the programme ends.

"They will not be receiving the wages forever so it is important for them to invest their money in COMSIP by buying shares in order for them to keep benefiting even after the programme phases out.

Through CS-EPWP, participants from Thabiro are now buying land, building houses, buying livestock and they even have good nutrition in their homes because they invested their money in cooperatives and they are reaping the benefits.

CS-EWP participants receive MK38,000 at the end of each cycle if they worked all 24 days.

It is a government initiative under the Social Support for Resilient Livelihoods Project implemented by National Local Government Finance Committee, with financial support from the Multi-Donor Trust Fund and the World Bank.

By Uchindami Msowoya

Mzuzu, August 6, Mana: In its efforts to enhance promotion of youth friendly health services, Voice of Livingstonia (VoL) Radio through its Titchile Speak-Out Program in partnership with Propel health, on Wednesday conducted Youth Contraceptive Awareness matching through a road within Mzuzu City and its surrounding areas.

According to Station Manager for VoL Radio, Rev. Ken Nyirongo the initiatives aimed at reaching out to over 200 adolescents between the ages of 14 and 19.

“Titchile Speak-Out engages young people through both radio and social media platforms by coming up with impactful content on sexual and reproductive health and other relevant health topics in promoting healthy lifestyle amongst the youth,” said Rev. Nyirongo.

Youth Officer who is responsible for Mzimba North and Mzuzu City, Misheck Msokwa urged the youth to term their future by utilizing entrepreneurship opportunities and staying engaged to avoid falling victims of health risking behaviors.

"My appeal to you is take care of yourselves. You should be involved in productive activities and avoid being idle,” Msokwa said.

Sexual Reproductive Health Coordinator for Mzimba North Health Office, Linda Singini said the office is committed to ensuring that all health facilities in the district provide youth friend health services.

“While our focus is on individuals aged between 10 and 24, we are also open to provide services to people of all ages,” said Singini.

One of the young people who patronized the show, Sangulukani Mzembe said the initiative will facilitate easy access of youth health friendly services thereby promoting early treatment seeking behavior among young people.

"Most young people are always hesitant to seek health care services for fear of being judged but through this initiative, that will be history," Mzembe said.

Propel health which is funded by Developing Radio Partners, through Titchile Speak-Out Program promotes community engagement on health education and care, maternal and child health with focus on young people.

The program also provides a platform for discussions of issues of education, gender based violence child, early and forced marriages, sexual transmitted diseases, policy and governance at all levels.