LocationsFrom Subsistence to Commercialisation: Karonga Farmers Strengthen Market Readiness under the UCHI Project
July 16, 2026
Farmers in Kapolo South tend to their rice fields in Karonga, where favourable conditions and improved farming practices have raised hopes for bumper yields this season.
In Karonga District, rice-growing communities are preparing for the upcoming harvest season with renewed confidence under the Ulimi ndi Chilengedwe m’Malawi (UCHI) Strengthening Agricultural Commercialisation Project.
Funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Government of Malawi, the project is helping smallholder farmers transition from subsistence farming to more structured and market-oriented agricultural systems.
Across Kaporo North Extension Planning Area (EPA) Cluster and Kaporo South Ntchowo Cluster, improved farming practices, access to inputs, and strengthened market linkages are contributing to healthier crops and increased expectations for the season ahead.
Strengthening Farmers Beyond the Field
Although harvesting has not yet begun, farmers are already receiving post-harvest management training to improve quality, reduce losses, and maximise returns.
The training, delivered under the UCHI Business-to-Farmer model, focuses on harvesting, drying, handling, storage, and transportation, as well as meeting quality standards required by structured markets.
Levie Ngwila, Chairperson of the Kapolo North Farmers Association, stands in his rice farm — a living example of the leadership and commitment driving agricultural transformation in the region.
For many communities, this marks a shift towards more commercially oriented agriculture.
“Our association has over 900 farmers and 47 lead farmers, and we have seen significant improvements in how farmers are managing their fields and preparing for the harvest period. Farmers now understand the importance of proper post-harvest handling because they know there is already a market waiting for them,” said Levie Ngwila, Chairperson for Kaporo North Association.
Improving Productivity through Access to Inputs
Access to critical agricultural inputs remains a key challenge for many farmers. Through the UCHI Project, improved access to fertiliser, certified seed, and other inputs is contributing to better crop performance.
“Before this project, accessing fertiliser was difficult for many of us. Through the support we received, I managed to apply fertiliser in my field at the right time, and now my rice crop looks very healthy. I am expecting a bumper harvest this season,” said Sam Nyirenda from Chimalawanthu Village.
Building Market Confidence
Partnerships with farmer organisations and the private sector are strengthening market opportunities for farmers. Structured market arrangements are increasing confidence and encouraging production at scale.
Financial institutions are also supporting access to services that enable farmers and farmer organisations to participate more effectively in commercial agriculture.
Lead farmers from Kapolo North gather for a group photo following a post-harvest training session aimed at strengthening agricultural skills and improving yields across the community.
Linking Agriculture and Nutrition
In collaboration with UNICEF, nutrition education has been integrated into training sessions to promote healthier households and improved understanding of balanced diets.
This integrated approach ensures that gains in agricultural productivity contribute directly to improved household wellbeing.
Advancing Commercial Agriculture
John Amos, UNDP’s UCHI Project District Coordinator for Karonga and Chitipa, emphasised the shift taking place:
“What is encouraging is that farmers are no longer farming only for consumption. Through the UCHI model, we are seeing farmers adopting improved agricultural practices, organising themselves into associations, accessing inputs and finance, and preparing for structured markets. This is an important step towards building resilient rural livelihoods.”
Looking Ahead
As the harvest season approaches, farming communities in Karonga are increasingly positioned to engage in commercial agriculture, supported by stronger systems, improved skills, and growing market connections.
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