By Mabvuto Kalawa, Malawi Freedom Network Correspondent
Members of the Christ Mandate Church and the Wonderful Kids Foundation, a faith-based organization operating in Mitundu, have successfully completed a training course in conservation agriculture methods. The training took place at Mitundu Trading Centre, Fountain Hall in Patsankhondo Village, under Traditional Authority Chingala.
The initiative was spearheaded by Bishop Harvey Chabingah, who is both the founder and spiritual leader of the Christ Mandate Church. Speaking during the event, Bishop Chabingah encouraged participants to fully embrace the knowledge acquired.
“This is money in knowledge form,” said the Bishop. “Be vigilant and attentive. I urge the trainers not to hold anything back. Train the participants thoroughly so that they can also train others and implement what they have learned at the community level.”
He further emphasized that the skills gained from the training have the potential to significantly improve lives and boost food security, both at the household and national levels.
One participant from the Wonderful Kids Foundation expressed gratitude to the church for organizing the workshop. “We have learned a lot, and I plan to apply this knowledge both within the organization and at my own home,” she said.
Mr. Lemison, a pastor from the church, also commended the Bishop for facilitating the program. “Our church is now equipped in conservation agriculture, and we thank the Bishop for bringing the trainers here.”
The training incorporated both theoretical and practical sessions. Participants were taught how to make and apply organic manure, as well as proper planting techniques.
The trainers were drawn from Zimbabwe and Malawi, with the program funded by Equipping Farmers International, an American faith-based organization headquartered in Zimbabwe. The African Director of Equipping Farmers International urged participants to put into practice everything they had learned during the training.
The training ran for three days, from August 6th to August 9th. At its conclusion, an action plan was developed. A consultant hired by Bishop Chabingah will be conducting follow-ups to ensure the successful implementation of the skills and practices taught.
The theme of the training was “Doing Farming God’s Way.”
