The funding, provided through the African Development Fund’s Climate Action Window, will target the southern districts of Phalombe and Thyolo, which were among the hardest hit by Cyclone Freddy in 2023. The storm caused widespread destruction, including the loss of more than 50 000 hectares of farmland and damage to over 60 irrigation schemes.
Three years later, the impacts remain severe, with high poverty and food insecurity levels continuing to affect large parts of the population. Officials say the project aims to break this cycle by improving agricultural productivity and strengthening climate adaptation.
The initiative, known as the Enhancing Climate-Adapted Agricultural Productivity through Improved Water Management project, will run from June 2026 to September 2031.
The programme will prioritise the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, including the rebuilding and climate‑proofing of three irrigation schemes covering 180 hectares. These upgrades are expected to improve water management and reduce vulnerability to future extreme weather events.
Smallholder farmers stand to benefit significantly, with crop yields projected to increase by 35% to 40%, while average household incomes are expected to exceed $1 000 annually once the project reaches full implementation.
The initiative will also promote sustainable land use by restoring 650 hectares of degraded catchment areas through nature-based solutions, helping to protect water sources and improve long-term agricultural viability.
In addition to infrastructure, the project will focus on building capacity among farmers. Around 28 000 smallholders will receive training in climate-smart agricultural practices, aimed at improving productivity while adapting to changing environmental conditions.
The programme places strong emphasis on inclusion, with at least 40% of direct beneficiaries expected to be women, and female-headed households prioritised in support measures. Youth participation is also a key component, reflecting efforts to promote broader social and economic inclusion.
AfDB Country Manager for Malawi, Macmillan Anyanwu, said the project is designed to go beyond recovery. “This is about reconstruction and transformation, equipping farmers with the skills, inputs and market access they need to thrive,” Anyanwu said.
The five-year programme, valued at $14.41 million, will be implemented by a consortium led by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, alongside the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the UN Office for Project Services and the Government of Malawi.
In addition to direct beneficiaries, the project is expected to indirectly support more than 10 000 households through improved water services and expanded commercial agricultural activity.
–AfDB/ChannelAfrica–
