A significant revolution is underway in Malawi with the introduction of the IITA–CGIAR Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponic System (SAH) technology. This advanced rapid propagation technology was showcased and implemented at the Chitedze Research Station, enabling the swift multiplication of cassava plantlets and heralding a new era of agricultural innovation for the country.
This was carried out to mark the 62nd Chitedze Agricultural Field Day and to commemorate seven decades of dedication to advancing agricultural technologies and services in Malawi.
This significant milestone, themed “70 years of generating and promoting agricultural technologies and providing services for improving agriculture productivity and commercialization in Malawi,” was recently held at Chitedze Research Station. The event also brought together major stakeholders, researchers, policymakers, and farmers in the country.
Speaking at the event, Malawi’s Minister of Agriculture, Sam Kawale, emphasized that agriculture contributes at least 30% to the country’s GDP. He highlighted that this sector is projected to be the foremost priority in Malawi’s 2063 Agenda, reflecting the government’s commitment to funding agricultural research.
CGIAR Country Convener Dr Gbenga Akinwale stressed the importance of field days as platforms for sharing cutting-edge technologies. He also reaffirmed CGIAR’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the Department of Agriculture Research Services (DARS) in developing transformative technologies that would address farmers’ needs.
In a demonstration of collaboration, IITA worked with its partners at Chitedze Research Station to showcase innovative technologies to enhance agricultural productivity and commercialization in Malawi. Moreover, the IITA Cassava Unit, in collaboration with DARS’s Roots and Tubers Section, introduced a new cassava variety, Chinagwa 3. This variety, resistant to cassava brown streak and cassava mosaic diseases, was unveiled alongside the SAH technology, marking a significant advancement in promoting sustainable cassava cultivation.
Minister Kawale concluded by expressing his excitement about the event, noting that the 62nd Chitedze Agricultural Field Day exemplifies the unwavering commitment of Malawi’s agricultural stakeholders to advancing innovation and sustainability in the sector. He added, “IITA’s active participation at the event underscores its dedication to harnessing research and strategic partnerships to tackle the evolving challenges facing agriculture in Malawi and globally.”
Contributed by Theresa Saini and Anita Akinyomade
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