By Twink Jones Gadama
Ntcheu, Malawi – In a move aimed at transforming farmers into a secured food basket, the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) has disbursed 414 bags of NPK fertilizer and MK193 million in cash to farmers from four constituencies in Ntcheu district. The farm input loan program, which has allocated MK1.5 billion for the district, is expected to benefit 278 members from 28 farmer groups across Ntcheu North, Central, North East, and Ntcheu Dzozi Mvai constituencies.
According to Binson Chathanthumba, NEEF’s area supervisor for Ntcheu North branch, the initiative is designed to support farmers in producing high-quality crops despite the challenges posed by high fertilizer costs. “This development is geared towards transforming farmers into a secured food basket,” Chathanthumba said.
Chipiliro Patrick, chairperson of Mwala Farmers club from Kauwa Village under Traditional Authority Kwataine, hailed the gesture as a relief to farmers. “This loan has come in time when it is heavily needed, and my expectation is to produce high crop yield if the rain will be favorable,” Patrick said.
The NEEF’s farm input loan program is part of the organization’s efforts to promote economic empowerment and food security in Malawi. By providing farmers with access to essential inputs, the program aims to increase crop yields and improve livelihoods.
The distribution of fertilizer and cash to farmers has been welcomed by beneficiaries, who see it as a lifeline in the face of rising fertilizer costs. “We are grateful for this support, which will enable us to produce more crops and improve our livelihoods,” said one beneficiary.
The NEEF’s program has also been praised for its focus on supporting small-scale farmers, who are critical to Malawi’s food security.
“The NEEF’s program is a testament to the organization’s commitment to promoting economic empowerment and food security in Malawi,” said a local official.
However, concerns have been raised about the repayment of loans, with reports suggesting that clients of the NEEF in Ntcheu owe the institution MK655 million in arrears.
Despite this, the NEEF’s efforts to support farmers are seen as a positive step towards improving food security and promoting economic growth in the region.
