Improving Irrigation, Improving Livelihoods

Sabistone Mlongoti hails from Kadumba, Malawi. It’s a region that often experiences droughts and reduced crop yields, a reality that is becoming more frequent with climate change. Limited access to irrigation sources in a warming world not only reduces the amount of arable land for farming, but exacerbates the risk of food insecurity and hunger. Like most in his village, Sabistone relies solely on agriculture to provide for his family, and the threat of hunger constantly loomed.

To promote resilience, The Hunger Project Malawi partnered with the Kadumba community to establish irrigation schemes that enabled farmers to grow crops year round and diversify their production. Participating farmers contribute to maintaining the irrigation schemes, which rely on submersible pumps powered by solar energy.

In addition, Sabistone was able to access farm inputs through THP’s Food Bank program and receive modern agricultural training to improve his productivity.

The results? Outstanding. Equipped with a reliable water source and new farming techniques, Sabistone was able to cultivate more land. He quickly expanded his farming operation and began selling surplus crops. With the extra income, he invested in livestock and has made some significant purchases including a motorbike and improvements to his home.

Inspired to share his good fortune, Sabistone is a fervent advocate for modern farming and an active community member at the Majete Epicentre, holding positions like HIV animator and secretary of the SR Committee. With the right resources, Sabistione was able to end hunger himself – and knows that others can do the same.