Smallholder coffee farmers in Malawi face numerous challenges, but a new agroforestry project aims to improve their livelihoods and sustainability. The initiative, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Slow Food Coffee Coalition (SFCC), promotes coffee agroforestry as a solution to issues like climate change, market instability, and inadequate farming inputs. The project trains farmers in better practices and connects them to international markets, enhancing their income and coffee quality.
• Coffee is a vital crop for many smallholder farmers in northern Malawi, despite accounting for only 11% of agricultural exports.
• The FAO and SFCC project has introduced agroforestry, which combines coffee with other crops and trees, improving yields and resilience.
• Farmers report reduced costs and increased profits due to organic practices and better market access.
• The project has led to a significant increase in coffee sales, with farmers now selling to European markets at better prices.
This initiative is crucial as it not only supports the farmers economically but also promotes environmental sustainability. By adopting agroforestry, farmers can combat climate change's effects while preserving their cultural heritage linked to coffee farming. The success of this project could serve as a model for similar agricultural challenges in other regions.
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