Twin sisters Mada and Linda have a shared passion for food innovation and community upliftment.
Together, they have formed Akhwaka, a proudly local brand dedicated to creating nutritious, affordable and sustainable porridge.
Speaking in an interview with ProjectM, said passion for trying news things made them to start the business.
“Our journey began right at home. We experimented with different farm ingredients and flavours to create a unique porridge flour. When our grandmother tasted it and loved it, we knew we had something special.”
That is when the idea for Akhwaka Phalala was hatched, a premium porridge flour made from locally sourced grains like groundnuts, maize and millet.
The twins combined traditional recipes with modern flavours to produce a wholesome product that meets diverse nutritional needs.
“We didn’t just want to make porridge, we wanted to create a product that connects with our community’s tastes and nutritional needs while also supporting local farmers.”
Both sisters studied Community Development and the skills they gained in project planning, market analysis and community engagement have played a vital role in building their business.
“Our education taught us to listen to communities and understand what they need. That’s been at the heart of our product development process,” she said.
Akhwaka Phalala is not just an instant porridge. It is a carefully crafted blend of roasted grains designed for maximum nutrition and taste.
“The process involves sourcing fresh grains from local farmers, cleaning, roasting, milling and packaging in food-grade, eco-friendly materials. We also use packaging that keeps our flour fresh while also being kind to the environment,” Linda says.
The health benefits of Akhwaka Phalala include high fiber content, essential vitamins and minerals perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome breakfast option.
“Our business is about more than profit. It’s about making a positive difference in people’s lives and improving food security in our community,” she said.
When asked what advice they would give to aspiring entrepreneurs, Linda said one needs to understand the needs of a potential customer.
“Understand your consumers. Be passionate about your product. And always prioritise quality and sustainability,” she said.
Akhwaka Phalala isn’t available in stores or through local distributors, but it can be delivered nationwide from Blantyre, Mbayani.
