Pigeon peas farmers in Chiradzulu have been urged to properly manage their crop to take advantage of the growing demand internationally, particularly in markets such as India.
Agribusiness Officer for Chiradzulu Agriculture Office Charles Nyirenda told MBC that although the production of the crop has dropped to 17,265 metric tonnes in the 2024/2025 farming season from 26,245 metric tonnes last season, farmers can still make huge profits if they care for the peas.
His remarks come days after the government released farm gate prices for various crops, in which pigeon peas would be selling at a minimum price of K1,100 per kilogramme.
“We are here to offer extension services to our farmers from selecting good seeds to pre-harvest and post-harvest processes so that they should reap from their sweat,” he said.
Nyirenda added that his office aligns its services with the MW2063 development agenda in ensuring that farmers venture into agriculture commercialisation to better their lives.
One farmer, Rozina Masaula of Traditional Authority Chitera, expressed her excitement on the news, saying that for a long time, pigeon peas producers have been reaped off by middlemen.
“Although I practise mixed farming of pigeon peas and maize due to land scarcity, I am very sure that this year I will get something tangible from my sweat,” she said.
By Chrissie Mainjeni, Chiradzulu
