Authorities in Chitipa District have welcomed the introduction of Malawi Digital Plant Health Services (MaDiPHS), a government-led project aimed at targeted and efficient pest and disease management for selected crops in Malawi.
The project, implemented by PlantVillage, was presented during the district’s executive committee meeting.
PlantVillage Field Officer, Chrissy Awali, explained that the project will integrate digital platforms to build a nationwide digital plant health service, accessible in Chitipa as well.
“Farmers will use the PlantVillage mobile app—an AI-based programme available online and offline—to identify pests and diseases in their fields and interact with online support staff for real-time advice,” said Awali.
The priority crops include maize, cassava, banana, groundnuts, and tomatoes.
Awali said that the app supports both Chichewa and English, with options to translate into other local languages.
Chitipa District Council’s Director of Administration, Clement Gonthi, hailed PlantVillage, saying the project is timely as it will help farmers detect pests and diseases and provide real-time advice on management.
PlantVillage works with smallholder farmers across Asia, the Americas, and Africa to combat the effects of climate change, which has increased crop pests and diseases.
Globally, crop losses due to pests, diseases, and weeds account for an estimated 42 percent, posing a major challenge to food security.
MaDiPHS is also being implemented in other districts, including Lilongwe, Dedza, Salima, Nkhotakota, Thyolo, and Nsanje.
