Rumphi MPs to fight farmers’ exploitation

Aspiring parliamentarians in Rumphi have pledged to initiate better markets once voted into power as a way of fighting exploitation encountered by farmers in the district.

The aspirants signed a pact with Farmers Union of Malawi (FUM) last week before the electorate, chiefs, civil society, media and Rumphi District Council that they will fight for the welfare of farmers who are usually exploited by vendors.

It is hoped that, once fulfilled, the pact will see Admarc depots in various parts of Rumphi as well as the whole country help flush out vendors who buy farm produce at lower prices and resell them at exorbitant prices.

In view of this, the candidates vowed to find better markets through, among other means, pushing for a bill that will stop commercialisation of Admarc so that the institution remains a reliable market for farmers by enjoying full government support.

FUM communications manager, Vincent Nhlema, said the agreement will act as a binding factor between the farmers and the parliamentarians.

“We want farmers to benefit from their produce. For a long time farmers have had problems with markets and it is time for the MPs to help them access better markets,” said Nhlema.