The government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (Ifad) have launched a $53 million (about K92.8 billion) Sustainable Agriculture Production Programme phase II (Sapp II) that seeks to commercialise agriculture production and enhance resilience of small-scale farming systems for improved income, food and nutrition security.
Sapp II will equip farmers with the tools and knowledge to tackle food insecurity, boost wealth creation and improve livelihoods of rural communities in Dowa, Balaka, Lilongwe rural and Mzimba.
The project is particularly important for women, as they account for more than half of the country’s population and provide the bulk of the workforce in the sector, and hence they make up 50 per cent of the project participants.
Ifad Country Director Bernadette Mukonyora said Sapp II represents a critical investment in the future of agriculture.
“Its launch signifies a significant step towards a food-secure future for Malawi. By empowering small-scale farmers, particularly women, and promoting sustainable practices, the program has the potential to transform the agricultural sector, improve livelihoods, and contribute to a more prosperous nation,” Mukonyora said.
Sapp II will promote soil, land, and water management practices to enhance soil fertility, restore degraded land, and lessen the pressure on natural resources already strained by climate shocks.
Agriculture Minister Sam Kawale described the launch of Sapp II as timely.
“It offers the country an opportunity to unlock the sector’s potential, increase productivity, create wealth and improve food and nutrition security.
“These are key indicators to Sustainable Development goals and are aligned with Malawi Agenda 2063,” Kawale said.
Ifad has pumped $18.08 million into Sapp II with the Government of Malawi pouring in $8 million.
The European Union has contributed $2.6 million while domestic financing of $3 million is from the pass on revolving scheme. A financing envelope of $15.6 million is open to new and interested financiers.
