Malawi farmers body urges media to report on agriculture

The Farmers Union of Malawi has called on the media to extensively cover agriculture issues and lead in sensitising masses on the need to conserve environment.

Speaking in an interview after a tree planting exercise at Luju Irrigation Scheme in Rumphi on Thursday, FUM director of research, policy and partnerships Candida Nakhumwa said the country is facing a number of challenges in the agriculture sector because the masses are not well-informed about best practices.

She said agriculture is a very crucial sector that needs attention and the media has to cover issues about modern and viable farming methods so as to achieve food security and alleviate poverty among Malawians.

Nakhumwa further encouraged the media to prioritise conservation of the environment as deforestation is affecting rainfall patterns.

She noted that there is urgent need for reforestation especially in catchment areas.

“Without the media taking part in such issues, there is nothing we can achieve. The public looks up to the media and we expect that the media will take this call seriously.

Paramount chief Chikulamayembe said high poverty levels are driving people into wanton cutting down of trees as people cut trees for survival.

He said there is also need to address the poverty gap between the rich and the poor. He said leaders have to come up with mechanisms that will see resources trickling down to the poor masses.