Project to improve food production in Mchinji

Youth Alliance for Sustainable Development has launched a project to improve food production targeting at least 6 000 farmers in Traditional Authority Simphasi in Mchinji District.

Speaking on Tuesday during the launch, the organisation’s executive director Gerald Njanji said they will engage farmers to grow different crops to ensure they have six food groups.

He said the Food Forest project is part of their Afforestation for Sustainable Community Development implemented in the area.

“We will continue planting fruit trees to boost household food production. This project seeks to ensure that farmers have six food groups at their disposal since they will practise permaculture,” said Njanji.

He also said the project is a continuation of what Permaculture Paradise Institute has been implementing in Zomba, Dowa and other parts of Mchinji.

Permaculture Paradise Institute founding director Luwayo Biswick said they will help farmers through the project to have nutritious food.

“The project will help farmers to plant and establish resilient systems which are sustainable,” he said.

Group village head Mtiwa commended Youth Alliance for Sustainable Development for the initiative.

“People will be food secure. I appeal to people to work hard in implementing the skills they will acquire during the training,” he said.

Youth Alliance for Sustainable Development will implement the Food Forest project for two months with support from Permaculture Paradise Institute.

The project will cost K17 million to train at least 6 000 farmers from 13 farmers clubs.