Revitalizing Malawi’s Agriculture: The Power of Food Safety in Transforming Farming Practices

By Lara Ivanitch

In Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, Fernanda Santos explored a vibrant market. Baskets overflowed with colorful beans, fresh produce, and the day’s catch. This bustling Lilongwe Central Market is a snapshot of Malawi’s agriculture and food systems, but it also highlights challenges, especially in food safety.

Santos, an assistant professor at NC State University, joined seven other faculty members on a trip to Malawi in September 2024 through the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) International Programs.

During their visit, Santos and her colleagues met with local experts to discuss strategies for strengthening Malawi’s agriculture. The aim is to help the country become more self-sufficient. Santos was impressed by the enthusiasm in the room, noting the participation of representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and local universities.

Malawi still relies heavily on tobacco as its main cash crop. However, the government is eager to diversify. North Carolina has successfully shifted from a tobacco-focused economy to a wider array of agricultural products. Santos believes Malawi can learn from this shift.

Malawi 2063 outlines the vision for a self-reliant nation. Currently, Malawi relies on food imports, which create significant expenses. Many small farms operate mainly to feed the families who run them. “They’re producing just enough for their needs,” Santos explains.

During her travels, Santos visited a “mega farm” that showcases innovative farming methods. At Horizon Farm, owned by Andrew Goodman, sustainability is a key focus. They recycle everything—using corn stalks as fertilizer and making their own compost. This approach not only reduces waste but also ensures that different crops provide a stable income.

These mega farms could serve multiple purposes: generating profit, providing food, and even educating smaller local farms. They have the potential to revolutionize agriculture in the region.

Santos also emphasizes the importance of food safety. She believes that educating larger farms about best practices for preparing fruits and vegetables can significantly reduce foodborne illnesses. Since returning, she has been working on a grant proposal with David Mkwambisi from the Malawi University of Science and Technology. Their goal is to develop and test new Eco-Nutrition Guidelines that address food security and sustainability as Malawi faces challenges stemming from climate change.

Santos encourages her colleagues at the university to engage in international projects. “It’s a two-way street,” she says. “You learn so much when you talk with people outside the United States.”