Agricultural Transformation: Minister Hands Over Modern Tractors and Truck to Salima Cooperatives

Minister of Agriculture Sam Dalitso Kawale on Thursday handed over state-of-the-art tractors and a Scania truck worth K1 billion, funded by the Agricultural Commercialization Project (AGCOM). The equipment will significantly boost productivity for local cooperatives.

During the handover ceremony, Minister Kawale emphasized that these modern tractors will enable farmers to prepare their land efficiently, reducing costs compared to local hiring fees. Increased productivity will enhance forex generation and profitability. “The progress in these cooperatives gives us immense confidence in the future of agriculture in Malawi, especially here in Salima,” said Kawale.

The Minister highlighted that these cooperatives accessed one of the available funding windows from the Ministry of Agriculture, aiming at agricultural commercialization. Over 600 billion kwacha is available for serious farmers. Kawale praised the farmers for purchasing the tractors and a 15-ton truck, noting a marked increase in cultivated land productivity.

“These farmers have seen a significant decrease in input costs and transport expenses since they no longer need to hire equipment. This empowerment has led to increased profits and reduced production costs,” he added.

Before acquiring the tractors, high market rates forced many farmers to resort to manual labor. Now, the cooperative’s tractors lower costs and make farming more accessible. Kawale pointed out the positive impacts, including a substantial increase in yields.

Representing the beneficiaries, Salima Cane Growers Cooperative chairperson Kings Mpota praised the Malawi Government for AGCOM, noting it has transformed farmers’ lives. “The cooperative’s tractors will allow affordable access for all farmers. They only need to cover fuel costs, while the cooperative provides labor at a lower price,” said Mpota.

The cooperative also offers deferred payment for tractor services, deducting dues from post-harvest sales. This system has significantly boosted yields, resulting in over 400 million kwacha in revenue.

During the event, Spring Cooperative Chairperson Norman Fulatira expressed excitement about the commercial opportunities brought by the new tractors. Increased hectarage and profits mark a positive trajectory for the members.