In a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity and empowering local communities, NCA/DCA, in partnership with Find Your Feet Malawi (FYF), recently provided essential farming equipment to three cooperatives in Mzimba North. The vibrant handover ceremony, held at Mpherembe EPA, marked the official delivery of a groundnut sheller and two soybean threshers to Mpherembe Cooperative, Engucwini Cooperative, and Embombeni Cooperative.
The event was met with great enthusiasm from the community, especially Senior Chief Mpherembe, who praised the transformative impact of the project. He acknowledged the critical role played by NCA/DCA and FYF in fostering market access, entrepreneurship, and improving post-harvest handling practices in his area. “This project is a game-changer for our community. It not only boosts our agricultural productivity but also opens up new opportunities for economic growth,” Senior Chief Mpherembe remarked.
The introduction of this equipment is poised to revolutionize the cooperatives’ operations. The groundnut sheller and soybean threshers, with a remarkable capacity of processing about 4 tons per hour, are set to significantly increase cooperative business revenues. These machines will save valuable time previously spent on manual threshing of soybeans, shelling groundnuts, and maize, allowing farmers to focus on other critical aspects of farming. The cooperatives anticipate improved production and productivity, which will enable them to meet the growing demand for their products and ensure better market competitiveness.
The excitement was palpable as cooperative members expressed their gratitude and optimism. They recognized that the initiative would not only ease the burden of manual labor but also contribute to the overall economic well-being of their communities. “This equipment will help us increase our yields and improve the quality of our produce, which in turn will attract better market prices. It’s a big step forward for all of us,” said one of the cooperative members.
During the ceremony, the Executive Director of Find Your Feet, Melina Mtonga, encouraged cooperative members to take proper care of the equipment, emphasizing its potential to generate additional revenues for their cooperatives. “This equipment is a valuable asset that will drive your cooperative’s growth. By maintaining it well and using it effectively, you can ensure long-term benefits for your members and the community at large,” she stated.
Echoing this sentiment, John Magombo, the Marketing and Value Chain Specialist from NCA/DCA, urged farmers to leverage the support provided by the TRANSFORM project to build sustainable business models. “This initiative is more than just about providing equipment; it’s about empowering you to create thriving enterprises that enhance food security and increase incomes within your communities,” Magombo emphasized.
The handover ceremony marked a milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture and access to markets in Mzimba North. The TRANSFORM project, which focuses on enhancing agricultural practices and creating sustainable livelihoods, is seen as a catalyst for progress and empowerment in the area.
As the cooperatives in Mpherembe, Engucwini, and Embombeni begin to utilize their new equipment, the entire community is optimistic about the future. With increased productivity and better market access, the farmers are well on their way to achieving greater economic stability and food security.
Acknowledgments:
- Funding Partners: NCA/DCA
- Collaborating Organizations: Find Your Feet Malawi
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