Young Farmer's Sustainable Business Ideas Inspire Malawian Youth to Cultivate Success
Mlelemba, who started farming in 2020, realized many youths were idle, holding only their academic papers while waiting for government jobs.
LUNZU, Malawi— In a country where many young people struggle to find work, 26-year-old Blessings Mlelemba from Lunzu has become a beacon of hope through his sustainable farming business, writes Bridget Banda.
Mlelemba, who started farming in 2020, realized many youths were idle, holding only their academic papers while waiting for government jobs.
To prevent them from turning to harmful practices, he began training them in skills for bumper harvests.
"Sometimes people think farming fits the elderly and poor, forgetting that the richest person in the world depends upon a farmer to eat," Mlelemba said.
"It's time for Malawian citizens, especially youths, to change their mindset and venture into farming."
He also highlighted farming's importance as a source of food and income.
"Farming has shown me a life of possibilities. Even if I can't make huge profits, I don't have pressure to buy food," Mlelemba said. "A farmer's customer is everyone who eats, unlike other jobs that have specific, limited customers."
David Kauma, one of the beneficiaries, expresses gratitude for the farming skills he's acquired, which provide a reliable income for his family of seven.
"I've been equipped with vast knowledge of irrigation farming because we're always on the farm, and the previous drought hasn't affected our productivity," he said.
Kauma urges all Malawians to venture into farming to ease their daily challenges.
Christon Kanjuchi, chairperson for agriculture development in Lunzu, commends Mlelemba's efforts.
"The guy is doing a recommendable job. I'm really sure it will have an impact on productivity," he said.
Felix Jumbe, an agricultural expert, stresses the need to engage youth in farming to achieve the national agenda by 2063.
"This initiative is one means of engaging people in farming, but a lot needs to be done to ensure people are fully and economically employed in farming," he said.