[19 February 2024 | Lilongwe, Malawi] – Solidaridad is revolutionizing Malawi’s agricultural sector by integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance productivity, improve farmer incomes, and ensure sustainable farming practices. Through its innovative approach, Solidaridad is transforming the cotton, tea, and broader agricultural landscape by leveraging digital tools, e-payment solutions, and precision agriculture techniques to support Malawian farmers at scale.
Empowering Cotton Farmers with E-Payments
In partnership with the Malawi Cotton Council and implemented by Kvuno, Solidaridad has introduced an innovative e-payment system that is registering and aims to empower over 100,000 cotton farmers by 2027. By transitioning from cash-based transactions to secure digital payments, farmers will receive timely payments, reducing financial risks and enhancing transparency across the cotton value chain. This transformation ensures that smallholder farmers can access financial services and build long-term economic stability.
“Technology is the key to unlocking the full potential of Malawi’s agricultural sector. Through e-payments, we are ensuring that farmers receive their hard-earned income securely and efficiently, thereby fostering trust and economic inclusion,” said Given Phiri, Programs Manager for Solidaridad (Malawi).
The Wadi App: Bringing Knowledge to Farmers
To bridge the knowledge gap in agriculture, Solidaridad and Kvuno make use of the Wadi App, a smartphone-based digital extension service provided to lead farmers, each responsible for guiding a network of 30 farmers. This app delivers real-time agricultural information, weather updates, best farming practices, and market linkages, ensuring that smallholder farmers stay informed and competitive.
“With digital tools like the Wadi App, we are bringing agricultural knowledge directly into the hands of farmers, ensuring they have access to timely and relevant information. This innovation is empowering rural farmers to make better decisions, improve yields, and access broader markets,” said Lydia Banda, Kvuno’s Regional Operational Lead.
Expanding Market Access for Speciality Tea and Conservation Agriculture
Beyond cotton, Solidaridad is also making strides in specialty tea production by supporting farmers with training in sustainable farming practices, conservation agriculture, and value addition. By adopting climate-smart agricultural techniques and leveraging digital platforms, Malawian tea farmers can now access international markets, increasing their profitability and competitiveness.
“Malawi’s tea industry has immense potential. Through technology and capacity-building, we are equipping farmers with the skills and market linkages they need to thrive in the global specialty tea sector,” emphasized Phiri.
Driving a Tech-Powered Agricultural Future
Solidaridad remains committed to leveraging digital tools to revolutionize agriculture, enhance farmer livelihoods, and contribute to national food security. By integrating e-payments, smartphone-based agricultural services, and conservation agriculture technologies, Solidaridad is positioning Malawi’s smallholder farmers at the forefront of the agricultural revolution.
