Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development has urged farmers in Kasungu District to transition from subsistence agriculture to commercial soya bean production to increase incomes and improve household nutrition.
The ministry’s senior deputy director Susan Malunga made the call on Monday during a soya bean field day at Zenza Primary School in Kapaladzala Extension Planning Area in the district.
The field day, organised by the Department of Agricultural Research Services in collaboration with Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (Taat), was conducted under the theme ‘Unlocking technologies for African agricultural transformation for improved human and animal nutrition’.
Speaking during the event, Malunga said there was a need for farmers to view soya bean farming as a business venture capable of transforming their livelihoods.
“This field day must mark a decisive shift where farmers begin to approach soya bean production not as a routine activity, but as a structured agribusiness capable of generating sustainable income for their households,” she said.
Malunga noted that despite soya bean’s potential, yields remain low among many farmers due to limited access to improved seed varieties, poor agronomic practices and persistent pest and disease challenges.
“To unlock the full potential of soya bean, research must be complemented by adoption,” he said.
Kasungu Agricultural Development Division manager Yusufu Shaibu echoed the call for change, urging farmers to adopt improved farming methods and utilise extension services effectively.
He said: “It is concerning that many farmers remain trapped in poverty, living in grass-thatched houses, despite engaging in agriculture year after year.
“Farmers must move beyond tradition and begin to apply research-backed approaches that can raise productivity, incomes and ultimately transform their living standards.”
Senior Chief Kawamba said there was need for improved road infrastructure to support agricultural activities.
