In the bustling Lilongwe Central Market, a kaleidoscope of colours and aromas provided a vivid snapshot of Malawi’s current food system. But amidst the vibrant scene, a sense of unease lingered. Fernanda Santos, an assistant professor in NC State University’s Department of Food, Bioprocessing, and Nutrition Sciences, observed a system rich in tradition but lacking in modern food safety practices.
This realization fueled a deeper understanding of the challenges facing Malawi as it strives for agricultural self-sufficiency. Santos, along with seven other faculty members from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), embarked on a September 2024 mission to Malawi, seeking opportunities for collaboration and research to support the country’s agricultural transformation.
A Vision for Diversification
Malawi, heavily reliant on tobacco exports, is actively seeking to diversify its agricultural landscape. Recognizing the parallels between Malawi’s journey and North Carolina’s transition from a tobacco-dependent economy, the Malawian government sought guidance from NC State experts.
“We had the opportunity to engage with key stakeholders, including government officials, researchers, and representatives from various agricultural agencies,” Santos recalls. “The enthusiasm for change was palpable.”
The Malawian government has outlined a vision for the future in its “Malawi 2063” initiative, aiming to reduce reliance on food imports and enhance food security. Currently, a majority of Malawian farms operate on a subsistence level, producing primarily for household consumption.
A Glimpse of the Future: The Mega Farm
A visit to Horizon Farm, a pioneering agricultural enterprise, offered a glimpse into the future of Malawian agriculture. This innovative farm, employing modern techniques and emphasizing sustainability, showcased a model for the future.
“Andrew Goodman, the owner, is a true visionary,” Santos says. “He operates with a focus on zero waste, ensuring that every part of the farm contributes to the overall system. From utilizing corn stalks as fertilizer to producing their compost, everything has a purpose.”
Horizon Farm, with its integrated approach to farming and its commitment to sustainability, has the potential to serve as a model for other farms in the region, providing both inspiration and practical guidance.
Addressing Food Safety Challenges
Santos, whose research focuses on food safety, recognized the critical need to improve food safety practices throughout the Malawian food system. While her initial focus will be on collaborating with larger commercial farms, she envisions a broader impact, ultimately contributing to improved food safety across the entire food chain.
“We aim to work with these farms to implement best practices in food handling, processing, and distribution, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses,” Santos explains.
Following the trip, Santos, in collaboration with David Mkwambisi, professor of environment and development and director of the Institute of Industrial Research and Innovation at Malawi University of Science and Technology, is developing a grant proposal to address food security and sustainability challenges in Malawi. The project will focus on developing and validating innovative “Eco-Nutrition Guidelines” to enhance food security, improve nutrition, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
A Two-Way Street of Learning
This collaboration extends beyond knowledge sharing; it presents a valuable opportunity for mutual learning. “It’s not just about us sharing our expertise,” Santos emphasizes. “Engaging with Malawian researchers and farmers provides invaluable insights and a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within their context.”
The Malawi initiative serves as a testament to the power of international collaboration and the potential for impactful partnerships between institutions like NC State and developing nations. As the world faces increasing challenges in food security and sustainability, such collaborations are more crucial than ever.