Malawi eyes agroecology to tame harmful chemicals, restore soil

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Experts and farmers from across the globe converged to explore ways to make farming more sustainable, highlighting agroecology as a key approach to rejuvenate the environment.

MacPherson Nthala, Deputy Director of Land Resources, emphasized that agroecology is about “rebuilding nature” and reducing environmental harm.

He noted that while manure can restore soil fertility, the process requires patience and careful planning.

“Malawi currently lacks a unified plan to implement agroecology strategies,” Nthala added, stressing the importance of collaboration among stakeholders.

Lindy Morrison, Director of the Seed and Knowledge Initiative, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Agroecology is hard to do alone; it requires joint efforts and knowledge sharing to succeed.

However, farmers are already experimenting with natural farming techniques.

Aaron Moyo, a local farmer, highlighted that using natural methods reduces the reliance on chemical fertilizers, which can damage soil over time.

Delegates at the gathering continue to “bump heads” to find practical, collaborative solutions to promote sustainable farming practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.

This was part of Seed and Knowledge Initiative (SKI), in collaboration with its partners in Malawi—SCOPE Malawi, Biodiversity Conservation Initiative (BCI), and Soils, Food and Healthy Communities (SFHC) on stateholders engagement in Lilongwe.

Under the theme titled, “Bringing together research, teaching and practice to advance agroecology”, the event attracted government, research institutions, civil society, and farmer organisations to discuss emerging issues, opportunities, and innovations in agroecology and sustainable food systems in Malawi and across Southern Africa