At just 22 years old, Enifa Kuwani from Ntcheu District is already making her mark in the farming world.
Born and raised in a farming family, Enifa officially began her own farming venture in 2023, inspired by her older brother, Paul Gondwe Junior, a well-known farmer in Malawi, who remains her biggest supporter.
Enifa is involved in both crop and livestock farming. She raises goats and local chickens and grows maize, Irish and sweet potatoes. While she has over seven years of experience in animal farming, she has been growing crops for two years now—and the progress is already visible.
“I employ people from my hometown to help me on the farm. It feels good to know that I’m not just working for myself, but also creating jobs for others,” she said.
Farming has allowed her to support not only herself but also her family.
“After selling my produce, I’ve been able to buy clothes and support myself with pocket money while I was in school,” said Enifa.
Her work has also left a positive impression on customers.
Ellen Jamu, one of her regular buyers applauded Enifa for her venture.
“As a customer, I am very satisfied doing business with her. I always recommend buying from Enifa because her prices are fair and affordable just like what we expect here in the village.”
Despite her successes, Enifa still faces challenges. Being young and a woman in agriculture, she often finds herself underestimated.
“People don’t take me seriously just because I’m young and I also lack financial support, which makes it hard to expand or buy modern farming equipment like irrigation systems,” she said.
Her dream is to expand her farm to over 70 acres, growing crops like maize, beans, Irish and sweet potatoes, and groundnuts. She also hopes to establish a processing company to add value to her harvests and boost local food production.
Enifa encourages other young people to consider farming early in life.
“Don’t wait until you retire or grow old to start farming, start now while you still have the energy, ideas and strength to grow your future. Farming is not just for the elderly. It’s a powerful business for the youth too,” said Enifa.
As the agricultural sector in Malawi looks for new energy and innovation, young farmers such as Enifa Kuwani may hold the key to its transformation if supported.
