Project News

For the 5 days period from 17th to 21 st of June 2019 in Mzuzu, and the 5 days period from 24th to 28th in Karonga, MA-SHEP conducted Technical Training (ToT) for extension staff responsible for the target farmer groups in the 2nd Batch implementation districts.

The main purpose of the training was to learn how to cultivate horticultural crops selected by target farmer groups through market survey. In addition, we introduced important techniques at each step such as field preparation, raising seedlings, fertilizer management, pest and disease control, water management, harvest & post-harvest management, etc., and also included field demonstrations and practical exercises. For example, extension staff participated actively in practical exercises and learned technologies such as how to make Bokashi manure, Liquid manure, Biochar, nursery management and water management. After the practical training, there were interactive discussions which brought many questions from each participant and technical responses were provided for clarity hence there was a fruitful discussion.

On the last day of the training, we introduced the extension materials of the picture-story show which is called "Kamishibai" in Japan. Like a Japanese picture-story show, the front page is described in a way that visually conveys photographs and pictures of each technique, and the explanation is written on the back. Finally, participants developed an action plan to introduce the farming techniques they learned through the training, to the farmer groups. Frontline officers bring a picture-story show, visit a farmer group on the basis of an action plan, and transfer agricultural techniques. It is highly expected that the target farmer groups will grow, harvest and sell the horticultural crops selected through market survey.

MA-SHEP Assistant Project Manager/Counterpart Personnel of Horticulture Production Mr. Mathias Nkhoma making a closing remark

MA-SHEP Counterpart Personnel of Horticulture Production Mr. Enock Mthepheya conducting presentation on "Integrated Pest and Disease Control"

Practical Training on Transplanting mustard seedlings

Practical Training on sowing tomato seeds

Horticulture Staff in Rumphi District Ms. Trizer Nkhoma making the presentation on "Raising Seedlings and Transplanting"

Extension Staff in Karonga District Ms. Tamanda Banda practicing on "Raising Seedlings and Transplanting"