In Malawi, there is a famous saying that goes “Chuma chili mu nthaka” meaning “there is money in farming,” or in other words, “wealth lies in farming.” This saying is true for Malawi as farming is the backbone of the economy, with 85% of the population highly dependent on it. However, as much as most Malawians are involved in agriculture, they suffer persistent food shortages. This is because many smallholder farmers depend on rainfed and low-cost subsistence farming to meet their food needs. In this week’s article, we will explore what the life of a subsistence farmer looks like in the rural part of Malawi, in Dowa district near Orant’s headquarters.
Introducing the Orant Farm
The Cost of Soil
Rural Malawians live in relationship with the land. The food they cook is the food they grow. They learn what seeds to sow and where. They plan gardens to nourish their families. However, not everyone owns land. Especially women. Farmers who don’t own land must rent. And the costs add up.
“Land has been a major challenge to me,” says Monica Banda, “I don’t own a field. Every year, I must sublease a piece of land. It’s costly. I’m only able to rent an acre. This can feed my household of 6, but without anything left over.”
Each year, the costs of farming inputs increase. Most farmers grow crops for their livelihood, not for business.
Sowing Opportunity
In the 2021/ 2022 farming season, Orant distributed 20 acres of our farmland to Kasese farmers. We split the 20 acres between 10 households. 60% of the land went to women. 40% to men. Each participant doesn’t have their own access to land beyond subsistence farming. Each is eager to develop their farming into an income-generating opportunity.
Growing Wealth
At the Orant Farm Plot, we prioritize growing cash crops. Legumes such as soya and groundnuts are profitable in the market. Plus, they don’t require fertilizer. And! They are compatible with local weather conditions.
Blooming
Orant has also given farmers inputs to support their efforts. These inputs include seed, inoculant, and pesticides. Farmers will pay back the inputs at zero interest.
In addition, Orant provides training in:
- Commercial business
- Record-keeping
- Enterprise budgeting
- Agriculture techniques and instructions
“Without proper skills, advice, and instructions, the land and farm inputs can’t yield enough,” says Gracious Msimuko, Agriculture Program Manager. “Most farmers are not well versed with new farming techniques. Orant is here to support them in every aspect.”
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