By Burnett Munthali
Chikwawa District Council Vice Chair Alexander Watch has encouraged farmers in the district to intensify their farming efforts to help address food insecurity. Watch made the call on Thursday during an agriculture fair held at the Chikwawa district community ground.
Speaking at the event, Watch emphasized the importance of treating farming as a business that has the potential to improve the economic well-being of farmers and uplift their families. He urged the farmers to view agriculture not only as a means of sustenance but also as a pathway to financial independence and growth.
“Farming can transform lives if we approach it with the right mindset. By committing to modern farming practices and taking advantage of market opportunities, we can address food insecurity and improve our livelihoods,” Watch said.
Donald Ghambi, the Director of Agriculture for Chikwawa District, described the two-day agriculture fair as a great initiative with the potential to connect local cooperatives with buyers. He noted that such events are crucial for showcasing the capabilities of local farmers and facilitating market linkages that can drive commercialized farming.
During the fair, farmers displayed a variety of produce and products, highlighting the potential of the district’s agricultural sector.
Held under the theme “Unlocking Sustainable Commercialized Agriculture Through Market-Oriented Value Chain Innovations,” the fair attracted interest from various stakeholders in the agricultural sector, all of whom are working to support farmers in overcoming the challenges posed by climate change.
Chikwawa is one of the districts most affected by the adverse effects of climate change, which has made it imperative for farmers to adopt innovative and sustainable agricultural practices to secure their livelihoods.
The event served as a platform for local farmers to exchange ideas and learn about modern farming techniques that can boost productivity and resilience in the face of changing weather patterns.
