To promote agribusiness and reduce poverty for farmers in Salima, the European Union (EU) has EU has provided €2.8 million (approximately K2.3 billion) to the Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Development’s National Authorising Office (Nao) Support Unit.

The development is important, as agriculture remains the main source of employment. Amidst unceasing advice for farmers to diversify farming methods, the funds will come in handy in equipping the farmers with necessary tools, skills and aid to come up with quality harvests for the crops. The EU has therefore targeted the funding towards Mango farming, aimed at boosting Malawi Mangoes Limited, which has established markets abroad.

The project has also tipped the farmers to grow crops such as soya beans and groundnuts, in the same field as mango trees. Upon its completion, the project is set to bring in revenue for the farmers so much that diversification will indeed be implemented by doubtful farmers.