Malawi Nonprofit Distributes 1,600 Goats to Farmers in Climate Initiative
The donation, made through the TRANSFORM program, targets farmers in Nachisaka, Mvera, Chibvala and M'ndolera Extension Planning Areas (EPAs).
DOWA, Malawi — The Trustees of Agricultural Promotion Program (TAPP) has donated 1,600 goats worth over K96 million to 800 farmers in Dowa district this year as part of a climate resilience initiative, writes Jonathan Mzumazi.
The donation, made through the TRANSFORM program, targets farmers in Nachisaka, Mvera, Chibvala and M'ndolera Extension Planning Areas (EPAs).
Elemesi Masache, a beneficiary from Chimpala village, expressed gratitude for the two female goats she received.
"This is really something I could not imagine in my life," Masache said.
"I hope I will now be able to feed and send my children to school using the proceeds from this goat farming."
Dr. Gilson Njunga, TAPP's Executive Director, explained the choice of goats for the program.
"Goats are more resilient to climate shocks because of their body size and internal mechanisms," Njunga said.
"Their turnover is also much higher compared to other species, except pigs."
Wisdom Kanyinji, an assistant veterinary officer, was present to monitor the distribution and provide advice to farmers.
"If they take good care of the goats and pass them on to others, I think in 2 to 3 years we will have a huge goat population in our area," Kanyinji said.
The TRANSFORM program, funded by the Royal Norwegian Embassy through Norwegian Church Aid, aims to strengthen local food systems by increasing agricultural production, productivity and resilience to climate change.