Misuku Coffee Growers Cooperative, which is based in Chitipa District, has urged the government to maintain its support for the sector to ensure that farmers derive maximum benefits from this vital crop.
Development manager for the cooperative, Levis Siame, emphasised the crucial role coffee farming plays in sustaining the livelihoods of local communities.
Siame said while the government has previously assisted them through the Agricultural Commercialisation (AGCOM) Project, they still lack certain resources like processing machines and bemoaned low prices for their produce.
He emphasised that coffee is one of the commodities that can greatly contribute to Malawi’s economic development due to its high demand in international markets.
Siame cautioned farmers against selling coffee to opportunistic buyers offering low prices despite strong market demand.
One of the farmers, Lameck Msukwa, said coffee farming has enabled many Misuku residents to build better homes.
Msukwa commended the government for constructing the road to Misuku, which has improved their ability to transport produce to markets.
Misuku Coffee Cooperative has found a new market with Feco Investment after terminating its agreement with Mzuzu Coffee.
Currently, vendors from Tanzania, China and Egypt are in Misuku, sourcing coffee.
By Joseph Mbughi, Chitipa
