Deputy Minister Calls on Media to Combat Hunger in Malawi
This initiative aligns with the Malawi government's broader strategy to boost agricultural productivity and combat hunger, as outlined in the Malawi2063.
MZUZU, Malawi — Deputy Minister of Agriculture Benedicto Chambo has urged the media to play a crucial role in the fight against hunger in Malawi, writes Tionge Hara.
Speaking on February 1, 2025, during an interaction meeting with the Nyika Media Club and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the Northern region, Chambo emphasized the media's potential to amplify the voices of the marginalized and foster collaborative efforts to eliminate hunger.
Chambo encouraged media practitioners to leverage loans available from the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) to enhance agricultural productivity.
“Ending hunger requires a collective effort, and everyone should have access to loans from NEEF,” he stated, highlighting the importance of financial resources in supporting agricultural initiatives.
Feston Malekezo, chairperson of the Nyika Media Club, supported Chibambo's message, stressing the necessity for media professionals to diversify their funding sources.
He described the loans from NEEF as vital for advancing agricultural development, reinforcing the Deputy Minister's call for proactive engagement from the media sector.
Humphrey Mdyetseni, Chief Executive Officer of NEEF, explained that the meeting aimed to foster a better understanding between the Nyika Media Club and CSOs regarding their respective operations.
He pointed out existing gaps in media engagement and highlighted how CSOs have been commenting on NEEF’s initiatives.
This initiative aligns with the Malawi government's broader strategy to boost agricultural productivity and combat hunger, as outlined in the Malawi2063.
Chibambo's call to action underscores the essential role that the media can play in supporting these efforts and ensuring that the concerns of vulnerable populations are heard and addressed.