By Burnett Munthali
In a notable address at the Southern Africa Confederation of Agriculture Unions (SACAU) conference, President Lazarus Chakwera emphasized the crucial role that farmers play in the economic landscape of Malawi. Speaking in Lilongwe, Chakwera underscored that farmers are integral to the country’s economy, significantly impacting food security, generating employment, and contributing to export earnings.
The President’s remarks were made during the official opening of the two-day annual conference, which aligns with the government’s ATM (Agriculture, Tourism, Mining) strategy aimed at enhancing productivity in these vital sectors. This alignment reflects a commitment to boosting economic growth through a diversified approach.
Both Manes Nkhata, President of the Farmers Union of Malawi (FUM), and Betty Chinyamunyamu, Chief Executive Officer of NASFAM, expressed optimism about the conference. They believe that the event will foster the development of strategies to mitigate the effects of climatic shocks that have previously impacted the agriculture sector across Southern Africa.
The conference provides a platform for collaboration and innovative solutions to strengthen the agricultural sector, ensuring its resilience and continued contribution to the region’s economy.
