By Jones Gadama
Minister of Information and Digitalization Dr. Shadric Namalomba has praised Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources for leading Malawi’s shift from traditional farming to technology-driven agriculture, saying digital tools are key to boosting food security and achieving Malawi 2063 goals.
Dr. Namalomba made the remarks on Monday during a tour of LUANAR’s Bunda Campus, where he inspected various research projects and student-led innovations.
The visit focused on how the university is applying digital technology to solve real farming challenges.
While interacting with researchers and students, the Minister commended LUANAR for pioneering the use of drones in crop monitoring, artificial intelligence for early detection of plant and animal diseases, and mobile-based platforms that deliver real-time farming advice to smallholder farmers. He said such solutions reduce losses, cut costs and give farmers data to make informed decisions.
“These innovations show that the future of agriculture is digital. If we scale them, we can increase productivity and transform rural livelihoods,” Dr. Namalomba said.
He stressed that government is committed to linking research institutions with farmers so that new technologies move from labs to fields.
In appreciation of his support for science and technology, LUANAR honored the Minister by appointing him as the university’s ambassador. University officials said the role recognizes Dr. Namalomba’s efforts to promote digital transformation across sectors.
Accepting the title, the Minister pledged stronger government backing for agricultural research and for expanding access to digital tools in rural areas.
He noted that collaboration between universities, the private sector and government will be critical to ensuring farmers benefit from homegrown solutions.
LUANAR Vice Chancellor described the Minister’s visit as a morale boost for researchers working to modernize Malawi’s agriculture sector.
The university said it will continue partnering with government to roll out innovations that align with the Malawi 2063 development vision.
The tour comes at a time when government is pushing for smart agriculture as one of the pillars to drive economic growth and climate resilience.
