Malawi has launched the second phase of the Support Towards the Operationalisation of the SADC Regional Agricultural Policy (STOSAR) programme, a regional initiative aimed at strengthening agricultural systems, improving food security and promoting cross-border trade.
Speaking during the launch in Lilongwe, Secretary for Agriculture and Water Development Erica Maganga said the first phase of the project, implemented between 2018 and 2024, helped improve market information systems and disease surveillance.
“We are now able, on a daily or weekly basis, to collect market information which we use for decision-making on pricing of commodities,” she said.
Maganga added that STOSAR II will expand its focus to nutrition, ensuring that improved and biofortified crop varieties reach more farmers through extension services.
Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Country Representative Ali Said Yesuf said the project will strengthen agricultural data systems and support value chain development to enhance trade within the region.
“This phase will strengthen the information system and support value chains so that farmers and businesses can trade commodities smoothly,” he said.
Farmers Union of Malawi Chief Executive Officer Jacob Nyirongo said the initiative will increase farmer participation in regional markets.
He said the programme is expected to improve incomes and productivity among smallholder farmers.
The European Union-funded project will run until 2028.
#MBCDigital
#Manthu
