LILONGWE, Malawi – A total of 149,777 smallholder farmers across nine districts are receiving agricultural support aimed at strengthening food production ahead of anticipated El Niño-related weather challenges.

The support is being provided through One Acre Fund Malawi's Input Loan Programme, which enables farmers to access quality seeds and fertiliser on credit with a flexible 10-month repayment period.

The programme covers Blantyre, Thyolo, Mulanje, Chiradzulu, Zomba, Machinga, Ntcheu, Dedza and Lilongwe.

Agricultural inputs valued at K54.6 billion are being distributed, with a focus on early-maturing seed varieties to help farmers cope with potentially shorter growing seasons.

Beneficiaries are also receiving training in climate-smart farming practices, including organic composting, micro-dosing and appropriate planting techniques.

The organisation says the programme also provides climate-risk insurance to enrolled farmers.