Integrated agricultural research in Malawi

Around 50% of Malawi’s rural communities are living in poverty, with 25% still living in ‘ultra poverty’ with high rates of malnutrition. The cultivation of vegetable crops can provide an income, while indigenous vegetables in particular can contribute significantly to vitamin and mineral intake. While the climate is favourable for vegetable production, the lack of quality seed varieties, combined with poor pest and disease deterrents, hinder vegetable cultivation and both production and consumption has remained low. Agricultural research on improving productivity in sub-Saharan countries previously suffered from limited funding and poor intergration of key stakeholders. A more integrated approach has been proposed. With the help of Bioversity International, farmers were trained to conduct research towards improved vegetable production, marketing and ultimately, improved nutrition and incomes.
This publication is part of the Bioversity International’s series of Impact Assessment Briefs that aim to inform readers about the major results of evaluations carried out by the centre. The Briefs summarize conclusions and methods of more formal papers published in peer-reviewed journals.