Farmers from Mchinji and Lilongwe have applauded the National Smallholder Farmers’ Association of Malawi (Nasfam) for providing better extension services which have helped improve agricultural productions in the districts.
The revelations follow study findings on the role of Nasfam in smallholder led development which indicates that the association’s achievements are felt countrywide.
Speaking at the validation workshop aimed at sharing the results of the study in Lilongwe on Friday, one of Nasfam farmers, Mary Girevaziyo said many smallholder farmers in Mchinji have improved their livelihoods through Nasfam services.
“The association provides us with a lot of services which are not usually found at Extension Planning Areas (EPAs) including trainings and farm inputs such as pesticides and seeds,” said Girevaziyo.
She said farmers have understood issues to do with gender equality and women empowerment through Nasfam.
The association’s Policy Evaluation Officer, Dorcas Adongo admitted that Nasfam is doing well in provision of agricultural extension services across Malawi.
“The study shows that a lot of farmers are provided with value addition services. Nasfam also helps farmers to access good markets and improve on food security,” said Adongo.
She added: “We are glad that today, farmers themselves have told us how the association is benefiting them and where there is need for improvements.”
Chief economist in the ministry of agriculture Daisi Kachingwe appreciated Nasfam efforts which he said complements government’s efforts in agricultural production.
