By Sibhekisipho Fayayo
Solidaridad is spearheading a technological transformation of Malawi’s agricultural sector, empowering farmers with cutting-edge tools to boost productivity, increase incomes, and ensure sustainable practices. Through innovative programs focused on cotton, tea, and broader agriculture, Solidaridad is leveraging digital solutions to reshape the Malawian farming landscape.
E-Payments: Empowering Cotton Farmers, One Transaction at a Time
In partnership with the Malawi Cotton Council and Kvuno, Solidaridad has introduced a game-changing e-payment system, aiming to register and empower over 100,000 cotton farmers by 2027. This shift from cash transactions to secure digital payments will provide farmers with timely income, reduce financial risks, and enhance transparency across the cotton value chain. This initiative not only streamlines payments but also fosters financial inclusion, providing smallholder farmers access to essential financial services and promoting long-term economic stability.
“Technology is the key to unlocking the full potential of Malawi’s agricultural sector,” says Given Phiri, Programs Manager for Solidaridad (Malawi). “Through e-payments, we are ensuring that farmers receive their hard-earned income securely and efficiently, thereby fostering trust and economic inclusion.”
The Wadi App: A Pocket-Sized Agricultural Advisor
Recognizing the crucial role of knowledge dissemination, Solidaridad and Kvuno are utilizing the Wadi App, a smartphone-based digital extension service. This app provides lead farmers, each responsible for a network of 30 farmers, with real-time agricultural information, weather updates, best farming practices, and market linkages. This ensures that even the most remote smallholder farmers have access to the information they need to thrive.
“With digital tools like the Wadi App, we are bringing agricultural knowledge directly into the hands of farmers,” explains Lydia Banda, Kvuno’s Regional Operational Lead. “This innovation is empowering rural farmers to make better decisions, improve yields, and access broader markets.”
From Cotton to Tea: Expanding Opportunities
Solidaridad’s impact extends beyond cotton. The organization is also working to revitalize the specialty tea sector, providing farmers with training in sustainable farming practices, conservation agriculture, and value addition. By adopting climate-smart techniques and utilizing digital platforms, Malawian tea farmers are gaining access to international markets, boosting their profitability and competitiveness.
“Malawi’s tea industry has immense potential,” emphasizes Phiri. “Through technology and capacity-building, we are equipping farmers with the skills and market linkages they need to thrive in the global specialty tea sector.”
A Tech-Powered Future for Malawian Agriculture
Solidaridad’s commitment to leveraging digital tools is driving a profound transformation in Malawian agriculture. By integrating e-payments, mobile-based agricultural services, and conservation agriculture technologies, Solidaridad is empowering smallholder farmers to become key players in the agricultural revolution, contributing to both individual prosperity and national food security. This holistic approach, combining technology with training and market access, is cultivating a more resilient and prosperous future for Malawian farmers.
