The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), in collaboration with the Malawian government, is set to distribute over MK2.2 billion (approximately US$1.3 million) to over 36,000 farmers whose crops were damaged by extreme weather conditions during the 2023/2024 growing season.
The insurance payouts, distributed across multiple districts, aim to provide financial relief to farmers who have experienced significant crop losses due to droughts and floods. The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen the resilience of Malawi’s agricultural sector, which is highly vulnerable to climate change.
“Malawian farmers are the backbone of our economy, and they are facing increasing challenges due to climate change,” said Agriculture Minister Sam Dalitso Kawale. “Crop insurance is a crucial tool to protect farmers from financial losses and ensure long-term sustainability.”
WFP’s Deputy Country Director in Malawi, Simon Denhere, emphasised the importance of providing immediate relief to affected farmers while building long-term resilience. “By providing financial support, we can help farmers recover from losses and invest in future agricultural activities,” he said.
The insurance program is a significant step towards mitigating the impact of climate change on Malawi’s agriculture sector. By providing a safety net for farmers, the program can help to ensure food security and reduce poverty in the country.
