Maize production in Malawi increased by 88 percent over two decades, while the number of undernourished people rose by 61 percent, according to this account of the country’s agricultural development under AGRA. Written by Golden Matonga in Lilongwe, the article examines the contrast between rising agricultural output and persistent food and nutrition insecurity as Malawi marks 20 years of engagement with AGRA. Agriculture remains central to the economy, accounting for around 33 percent of GDP and 80 percent of employment, with tobacco providing 60 percent of exports.

The resource reports that staple food production increased by 78 percent, with maize yields rising by 80 percent despite only a 6 percent expansion in cultivated land. Production of sorghum, cassava and yams also grew. Yet four in five Malawians are reported to have experienced moderate or severe food insecurity over the past 18 years, while balanced diets remain unaffordable for many households. The article links these challenges to carbohydrate-dependent diets, soil degradation and erosion, drought associated with El Niño, and farmers’ dependence on fertilizers.

Malawi’s response has included an agricultural input-subsidy programme that accounted for 60 percent of the national agricultural budget in 2022, exceeding USD 150 million. The article highlights practical difficulties with its electronic voucher system, particularly poor rural connectivity. Against this background, Malawi is continuing its cooperation under AGRA 3.0, while AGRA representatives stress that the organization cannot finance or implement all measures required to transform the agricultural sector.