Civil Society Agriculture Network (CISANET), under the OXFAM project, held a live program on Mudziwathu Radio in Mchinji, 20th November, highlighting emerging issues regarding the implementation of the Affordable Input Program (AIP) in Malawi and its impact on farmers in Mchinji.
During the program, it was noted that the district has a budget of about 24 million Kwacha allocated to the AIP, resulting in limited coverage and benefits for farmers. Additionally, it was revealed that some AIP beneficiaries provide false information to the agriculture office to access the program despite not being farmers. These individuals often sell the inputs instead of utilizing them for farming.
One of the farmers in the district expressed concern that farm inputs under the AIP are often delivered late. Furthermore, for small-scale farmers, a single bag of fertilizer is insufficient to meet their agricultural needs.
Challenges such as corruption, delayed distribution of inputs, equipment failures, and climate change were highlighted as factors undermining the effectiveness of the program.
Some panelists stressed the need for the government to redesign the program, as many people remain food insecure despite the government spending a lot on the program.
CISANET made a commitment to continue advocating for policy changes, ensuring adequate resource allocation, and promoting prudent use of resources by engaging with duty bearers.
