The National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) has called on farmers to utilise irrigation farm input loans as part of efforts to ensure food security and boost agricultural productivity in Malawi.
Speaking during a field visit to Pharaoh under Mtosa Extension Planning Area (EPA) as well as Natiyi and Kazyanga irrigation schemes in Zidyana EPA I n Senior Chief Mwadzama, Nkhotakota, NEEF Chief Executive Officer Humphrey Mdyetseni emphasized that the initiative is designed to transform farming practices.
Mdyetseni said NEEF is not only providing loans but also equipping farmers with modern farming inputs such as fertiliser, improved seed varieties and solar-powered water pumps to support year-round production.
“We want farmers to fully utilise these resources to produce more crops, fight hunger and uplift their livelihoods. Irrigation gives farmers an opportunity to break free from rain-fed farming and achieve sustainable productivity,” he said.
Beneficiaries welcomed the support, citing irrigation as a key driver of both food security and financial stability.
Nelson James, from Pharaoh, said the project had boosted his confidence in farming while 21-year-old Richard Billy of Natiyi said the scheme had given young farmers hope for better income and self-reliance.
Traditional leaders and agriculture officials have also commended the initiative.
Senior Chief Mwadzama praised NEEF for empowering farmers in his area while Zidyana EPA Agriculture Extension Officer John Mangani pledged continuous technical support to help farmers apply modern irrigation methods and strengthen cooperative management.
With Malawi facing frequent climate-related shocks, NEEF’s intervention is seen as a timely step toward climate-smart agriculture.
By combining financial empowerment with technical support, the programme is helping farmers transition from subsistence to commercial-oriented production.
