Lilongwe-based young and ambitious entrepreneur, Noel Kafera is making a name for himself in the horticulture farming.
With over a decade of experience under his belt, Kafera has established himself as one of the country’s leading figures in the sector.
His company, Horticulture Production and Marketing Consortium (HOPMAC) is a testament to his hardwork.
Located in Mitundu on the outskirts of Lilongwe city, HOPMAC has carved a niche in the cultivation of a diverse range of fruits, vegetables and flowers.
“Currently, I can confidently say we are one of the country’s leading suppliers of fruit trees, vegetables and flowers and the good thing is we are producing all these locally,” said Kafera.
Registered officially as a company three years ago, HOPMAC has attracted interest from rural farmers who flock to the farm to learn the secrets of the trade.
“So, apart from cultivating all the crops you see here, we are also welcoming a lot of Malawians who come here to acquire knowledge,” said Kafera.
Currently, HOPMAC supplies vegetables, fruit trees and flowers locally with plans at an advanced stage to start exporting.
“We are currently negotiating with regional players in Africa to equip us with knowledge on how we can start exporting our products,” he added.
Kafera’s vision, however, extends far beyond the boundaries of his farm as he is planning to establish a network of horticulture demonstration farms across the country.
He said the farms will be established to promote exports and empowering local farmers.
Industry expert Maloto Chimkombero has hailed Kafera, describing him as visionary.
“His story should definitely serve as an inspiration to the youths who are only dreaming of white-collar jobs,” said Chimkombero.
