The University of Malawi (Unima), through its Centre for Resilient Agri-food Systems (Crafs), in collaboration with Tehirah Bakery, has conducted a training session for farmers from Zomba and Blantyre districts, focusing on sweet potato production.
Held at the Ministry of Agriculture’s Lunzu Rural Training Centre in Blantyre, the training aimed to equip farmers with knowledge on minimizing post-harvest losses, proper storage techniques, and the importance of value addition.
Associate Professor Victoria Ndolo, a food science expert and Crafs deputy academic leader, encouraged farmers from Traditional Authorities Kunthembwe (Blantyre) and Chikowi (Zomba) to change their approach towards harvest management.
“Farmers should make it a habit to set aside a portion of their produce for household use instead of selling it all. Drought-resistant crops like sweet potatoes are vital in addressing climate shocks, combating hunger, and improving livelihoods,” she said.
Jean Pankuku, Director of Tehirah Bakery, emphasized the potential of sweet potatoes in ensuring food security, as witnessed during recent maize shortages. She advised farmers to choose the right varieties, manage nurseries effectively, and embrace value addition practices.
As part of the training, participants learned how to process orange-fleshed sweet potatoes into flour, which can be used to make cakes, bread, doughnuts, fritters, and other baked goods. The training targeted farmer clubs and cooperative members from both districts.
