Ungweru Organisation distributed sprayers, pesticides and fungicides to farmers in the villages of Palangu Mhango, Telu Kamanga, and Jailosi Mhlanga at Doroba and Mtende on the 11th of February, 2025. Farmers had recieved pesticides and fungicides which are both organic and chemical based. This follows the organization’s commitment to climate smart agricultural practices through integrated pest and disease control.
This distribution followed a 2 days training where farmers were taught methods of integrated pest and disease control with respect to bean seeds which farmers have planted. The 2 days training had aimed to equip farmers with skills relevant to operating the sprayers and applying the pesticides and fungicides (both organic and chemical based) which farmers received.
The organic pesticides and fungicides included Neem spray and pepper spray, among others. Chemical pesticides and fungicides included committee and snow-thane, among others. Ungweru Organisation emphasized to the farmers to use both organic and chemical pesticides and fungicides in controlling pests and diseases as this reduces damage to the environment.
Farmers were optimistic of higher yields upon receiving the sprayers, pesticides and fungicides. One of the farmers, Wezzie Moyo who resides in the village of Palangu Mhango, said the merchandise will ensure a successful harvest bean crops which they have planted will not die or grow with deficiencies due to pests and diseases.
Cecilia Kadzombe, Agriculture Extension and Development Officer from the Ministry of Agriculture, hailed the distribution and the training as timely. According to Cecilia, research had shown the bean crops had deficiencies in growth due to pesticides and diseases. By providing sprayers, pesticides and fungicides, and training on how to operate the sprayers and how control pests and diseases, we are rest assured that the farming season will produce a successful harvest.
Noel Kumwenda, programs manager for Ungweru Organisation, was hopeful of a bolstered agricultural production capacity of the farmers. ”We hope that these facilities together with the skills will bolster their agriculture production and will help them grow more than once in a year”, said Noel. This activity was part of part of project titled “ Market Based Solutions for Transitioning out of Poverty in Malawi” funded by The CIFA Trust .