Malawi Youth Turn to Agriculture Amid Rising Joblessness
International Labour Organization data shows over 55% of Malawi's youth work in agriculture, often without job security.
MZUZU, Malawi — As unemployment continues rising among Malawi's youth, some young people in the northern city of Mzuzu are trying their hand at agriculture in hopes of securing a livelihood, writes Victor Musongole.
International Labour Organization data shows over 55% of Malawi's youth work in agriculture, often without job security.
The sector absorbs 56.6% of young male labourers and 60.3% of young female workers — more than any other industry.
But faced with few opportunities, a growing number of youth are pursuing farming as a business rather than a means of subsistence.
Jappie Gama, 33, runs a thriving tree nursery after picking up skills doing odd jobs with forestry officers.
"I could make up to 150,000 kwacha ($150) in a month during the offseason, but up to 300,000 kwacha ($300) during the rainy season," Gama said. The income helps support their family and pay school fees while allowing him to employ others.
Another agripreneur, 35-year-old Elijah Banda, began raising pigs in 2010 after shadowing an established farmer. He started small, with just four pigs. After selling piglets to an organization two years later, Banda added egg-laying chickens.
"All this is helping me earn a living," he said. "There are many opportunities for the youth. They just have to believe in themselves."
Like many young farmers, Banda has grappled with disease outbreaks. But he views farming as a long-term commitment not derailed by temporary setbacks.
"I took a risk and lost 30 pigs to swine fever but never gave up," he said.
Other young agripreneurs mentioned overcoming challenges through perseverance, creativity and community support.
After studying agriculture at university, Matilda Mlotha, 23, owns a fruit nursery near Mzuzu. Sphecklah Newa juggles farming with real estate ventures. Both praised agriculture's income potential with hard work.
Veteran farmer Felix Jumbe believes agriculture now offers youth "financial freedom and growth while reducing unemployment."
With decent profits and youth hungry for opportunity, agriculture could transform perceptions in Malawi from subsistence last resort to a career of choice.