By Cytress Kaunda
Local producers in Balaka have been called upon to prioritize environmental conservation alongside economic growth to prevent the depletion of precious natural resources.
Director of Forest at the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), Duncan McQueen made the plea during the launch of the Innovation Platform for Development of Green Value Chains (GVCs) in the district on Wednesday at the Boma.
“Green value chains prioritize environmental sustainability in every stage-from farming and packaging to selling yields. This platform is designed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders, facilitating the development and expansion of GVCs across the district,” said McQueen.
He said the innovation platform will enable producers to engage directly with buyers, financial institutions, and government representatives to access vital support, including expertise, market linkages, and financing.
“Markets often require larger volumes of high-quality products, which can only be achieved when farmers organize and work together. Collective action is key to meeting market demands and ensuring sustainable growth,” he said.
David Alli, Director of Agriculture for Balaka District, welcomed the platform, highlighting its role as a space for stakeholders to meet and find practical solutions to challenges facing farmers in Balaka and across Malawi.
“Our communities struggle with unstable weather conditions, which negatively affect agricultural production. This platform will help us address these problems, while also finding reliable markets for our farmers,” Alli said.
Umali Jiya, a farmer under the Nkasi Honey Cooperative, expressed optimism about the platform’s potential, saying it is expected to provide access to suitable markets, which will ultimately boost their incomes.
The launch event featured a showcase where farmers and other stakeholders displayed their products, giving attendees a first-hand look at the quality and diversity of local produce.
A panel discussion was also held to address key farmer challenges, including access to markets, financial services, and technical support.
The Innovation Platform for Development of Green Value Chains is a component of the ‘Transforming Landscapes and Livelihoods Project’ (TLLP).
With financial assistance from the Global Environmental Facility (GEF VII), the project is being run in Balaka, Ntcheu, and Mangochi districts and it is scheduled to end on November 30, 2027.
