The practicalities of help
Understanding of farmers' needs, within their agricultural situation, is vital to ensure the
correct kind of support.


Rural Malawians have been supported by the UK government via the targeted input programme that supplies starter packs (containing hybrid maize seed and fertiliser).
These packs in some of the more rural areas have been distributed late or only in part thus farmers have been unable to be in control of planting and fertiliser applications


Farmers need access to the basic agricultural commodities of seed, fertiliser and equipment.
Such resources must reach all rural populations where food is fundamental to all aspects of survival and quality of life. Education about crop alternatives is paramount.
Knowledge of crops that are more drought resistant, such as cassava and sweet potato, must be disseminated to all areas. Unfortunately this has not happened.
Maize culture has been nurtured by the post independence government of Dr Banda and the Ministry of Agriculture has resisted change continuing to promote only traditional crops.

In a country where 85% of the population live in rural areas coupled with 90% relying on agriculture directly for their livelihood improvement in agricultural markets will inevitable increase income in rural areas.
A reduction in the cost of production as well as improving access to market could generate a revival in smallholder agriculture.

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