Taiwanese Foundation Funds Pig Farming Initiative in Northern Malawi
The initiative, funded by Taiwan's Bjorgaas Social Welfare Foundation, has reached 10 direct beneficiaries and over 80 indirect beneficiaries since its launch.
MZIMBA, Malawi— Luke International distributed 15 piglets to farmers in Malawi's northern Mzimba district on Tuesday, expanding a pass-on livestock program that aims to boost economic independence among rural women, writes AfricaBrief Reporter.
The initiative, funded by Taiwan's Bjorgaas Social Welfare Foundation, has reached 10 direct beneficiaries and over 80 indirect beneficiaries since its launch last year in the Malidade Extension Planning Area.
"We want to alleviate poverty levels and empower households so that they graduate from ultra-poor," said Mercy Mvula Chapweteka, Community Development Project Manager at Luke International.
"By providing them pigs, we hope that their lives will not remain the same."
The program combines pig farming with sustainable agricultural practices. Beneficiaries receive training in producing organic Mbeya manure and maintaining backyard gardens for additional food security and income.
Lucy Gondwe, 52, from Inkosana Sere Village, sees the piglets as an alternative to expensive chemical fertilisers.
"These pigs will be my source of income. I will also be able to produce manure, which will help crop production as the price of fertiliser has skyrocketed," she said.
The project also addresses environmental concerns.
Sainet Tembo, 43, previously relied on charcoal production for income.
"Now my source of income is pig production. Our trees will be protected, and the manure being produced will be used in our gardens," Tembo said.
Charles Chirambo, Agricultural Extension Development Officer for Malidade EPA, praised the initiative's comprehensive approach.
"Piggery production is a game changer. It is the source of income and manure that replaces fertiliser in farming; as you know, fertilisers are not affordable to many," he said.
The Women Economic Empowerment project specifically targets economic injustices faced by women in Mzimba North, integrating livestock management with sustainable farming practices to create lasting economic impact.