By Mphatso M’bang’ombe:
Agriculture Minister Sam Kawale has touted drought-resistant crops as key to meeting national food security goals.
He added that the irrigation farming was another game-changer.
Kawale said this when Agricultural Research and Extension Trust (Aret) organised a tobacco field day in Mkweche Village, under Senior Chief Chilooko Malomo Extension Planning Area (EPA), in Ntchisi District.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Kawale emphasised the urgency of adapting agricultural practices that help Malawi address climate change-related problems.
“We recognise that our farmers are facing increasingly erratic rainfall patterns. We are, therefore, committed to promoting seeds that thrive in dry spells and require minimal watering,” Kawale said.
He said there was also a need to integrate irrigation farming into the agricultural framework.
“By promoting irrigation, we can optimise yields during both the rainy season and dry months. This dual approach is essential for our farmers to maximise their output and ensure the steady supply of food,” he said.
On his part, Aret Chief Executive Officer Abert Changaya lauded the government’s initiative and shed light on the organisation’s efforts to promote certified tobacco seeds among farmers.
“Tobacco remains a vital cash crop in our economy and we are dedicated to ensuring that our farmers have access to high-quality certified seeds.
“In conjunction with the government’s push for drought-resistant varieties, this will allow our farmers to not only sustain but also enhance their livelihoods,” Changaya said.
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