The Centre for Agricultural Transformation (CAT) is urging Malawian farmers to adopt climate-resilient crops to boost agricultural productivity and combat the impacts of climate change.
CAT Executive Director Macleod Nkhoma highlighted that crops such as maize, groundnuts, soya, and millet are better suited to withstand harsh weather conditions, reducing the risk of poor yields and food shortages.
Speaking during a Farmer Field Demonstration Tour at Makoka Research Station in Zomba, Nkhoma stressed the importance of adopting climate-smart agricultural technologies. The tour aimed to educate farmers on the benefits of growing weather-resistant crops, under the theme “Enhancing Agricultural Productivity through Promotion of Climate-Resilient Agricultural Technology.”
Nkhoma noted that Malawi’s Vision 2063 agenda encourages farmers to adopt innovative farming technologies through agribusiness initiatives.
“As CAT, we are promoting the cultivation of weather-resistant crops to help reduce hunger challenges,” he said.
Jessie Mvula, Acting Station Manager at Makoka Research Station, emphasized the importance of farmer field demonstrations, noting that such initiatives equip local farmers with modern farming techniques that improve productivity.
Smallholder farmer Timothy Wahela praised the initiative, saying it has provided valuable insights into improving farming practices despite the challenges posed by climate change. He emphasized that adopting new farming methods is crucial for increasing crop yields.
The demonstration event also featured participation from organizations such as Global Seeds, Saju Agro Dealers, Farmers Organization, Bayer Malawi, and Glow Best, which supply seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
Newman Kaphela from Farmers Organization commended the event for helping his company connect with farmers who regularly purchase seeds from them. He encouraged farmers to form clubs to access seeds on credit.
CAT, with support from Global Action and other partners, continues to promote climate-resilient agriculture and support smallholder farmers across Malawi.
