APAM Distributes Fertilizers to Alleviate Farming Challenges for Members
APAM's commitment to alleviating the challenges faced by its members during the harvesting season remains a beacon of support in the community.
LILONGWE, Malawi— The Association of Persons with Albinism (APAM) has taken proactive steps to address the farming challenges faced by its members during the 2023/2024 season amid concerns of input scarcity leading to hunger, writes Bridgette Mwanoka.
APAM President Young Muhamba made a symbolic presentation of fertilizers to members in Chinsapo, Lilongwe, emphasizing the impact of economic hardships on their ability to purchase farm inputs.
"Most APAM members are impoverished, and with the current economic status, they cannot afford to buy farm inputs on their own," Muhamba stated.
Recognizing the vulnerability of its members during uncertain climatic conditions, APAM secured support from the government's National Action Plan, acquiring fertilizers for distribution.
Muhamba stressed the limited reach of the initiative but expressed hope that the households benefitting would experience improved food security.
He urged recipients not to sell the distributed fertilizers but to use them judiciously, saying, "Use it wisely so that you can be food secure."
Lucia John, a beneficiary and mother of five children with albinism, expressed gratitude, stating, "This assistance comes as a lifeline for us during these challenging times."
APAM, acknowledging the persistent poverty among its members, called for additional support, citing over 9 thousand individuals in need.
Muhamba emphasized, "We cannot support every single member or household, but the few households that are expected to benefit from the initiative will be saved."
The initiative, initially launched in Lilongwe, has reached eight households and plans to extend its impact to the districts of Mzuzu, Mangochi, Ntcheu, and Chiradzulu.
APAM's commitment to alleviating the challenges faced by its members during the harvesting season remains a beacon of support in the community.