Solidaridad is spearheading a technological revolution in Malawi’s agricultural sector, aiming to boost productivity, enhance farmer incomes, and promote sustainable farming practices. By integrating digital tools, e-payment solutions, and precision agriculture techniques, Solidaridad is transforming the landscape for cotton, tea, and broader agricultural sectors, supporting Malawian farmers on a large scale.
One of the key initiatives is the introduction of an innovative e-payment system for cotton farmers. In collaboration with the Malawi Cotton Council and implemented by Kvuno, this system aims to empower over 100,000 cotton farmers by 2027. The transition from cash-based transactions to secure digital payments ensures that farmers receive timely payments, reducing financial risks and enhancing transparency across the cotton value chain. This shift not only improves the efficiency of financial transactions but also provides smallholder farmers with access to financial services, fostering long-term economic stability.
Given Phiri, programmes manager for Solidaridad (Malawi), highlighted the significance of this technological integration. “Technology is the key to unlocking the full potential of Malawi’s agricultural sector. Through e-payments, we are ensuring that farmers receive their hard-earned income securely and efficiently, thereby fostering trust and economic inclusion,” Phiri said.
To bridge the knowledge gap in agriculture, Solidaridad and Kvuno have introduced the Wadi app, a smartphone-based digital extension service. This app is provided to lead farmers, each responsible for guiding a network of 30 farmers. The Wadi app delivers real-time agricultural information, weather updates, best farming practices, and market linkages, ensuring that smallholder farmers stay informed and competitive. Lydia Banda, Kvuno’s regional operational lead, explained the impact of this digital tool. “With digital tools like the Wadi app, we are bringing agricultural knowledge directly into the hands of farmers, ensuring they have access to timely and relevant information. This innovation is empowering rural farmers to make better decisions, improve yields, and access broader markets,” Banda shared.
Beyond cotton, Solidaridad is also making significant strides in specialty tea production. By supporting farmers with training in sustainable farming practices, conservation agriculture, and value addition, Malawian tea farmers are now better equipped to access international markets. The adoption of climate-smart agricultural techniques and the use of digital platforms are increasing the profitability and competitiveness of these farmers. Phiri emphasized the potential of Malawi’s tea industry, stating, “Malawi’s tea industry has immense potential. Through technology and capacity-building, we are equipping farmers with the skills and market linkages they need to thrive in the global specialty tea sector.”
Solidaridad’s commitment to leveraging digital tools is driving a tech-powered agricultural future in Malawi. By integrating e-payments, smartphone-based agricultural services, and conservation agriculture technologies, Solidaridad is positioning Malawi’s smallholder farmers at the forefront of the agricultural revolution. This initiative not only enhances farmer livelihoods but also contributes to national food security, ensuring a more sustainable and prosperous future for Malawi’s agricultural sector.
