From Scarcity to Surplus

Smallholder farmer, Gracian Kakhome had grown accustomed to insufficient yields threatening his livelihood. His plot of land in Kachindamoto, Malawi regularly underproduced and he found himself in a continuous cycle of scarcity. To make ends meet, Gracian was often forced to sell precious livestock to feed his family, a decision that only offered temporary relief.

Gracian is not alone. With nearly 80% of Malawians relying on subsistence farming and unpredictable conditions making it increasingly precarious, food insecurity in his region is rampant. It is one of the myriad problems THP’s Malawi is helping to solve. Together with community partners, we are enabling farmers like Gracian to access the basic services they need to lead lives of self-reliance.

At his local THP epicentre, Gracian was able to take a loan out through the Food Bank program to purchase farm inputs. He also participated in agriculture training that empowered him to adapt his farming practices to a changing climate. As a result, his life has changed dramatically.

“I used to worry about how I would feed my family during the lean months. But now, thanks to the food bank program and the loan I received , I can grow enough maize to feed my family all year round on my own. I even have some left over to sell at the market.”

Gracian’s newfound knowledge and resources transformed him from a subsistence farmer into a thriving agricultural entrepreneur, able to sell his products at local markets and support wider communities. No longer forced to sell his livestock in desperation, Gracian is building a more secure and prosperous future for his loved ones.