Global conflict in the Middle East is threatening Malawi's 2026 farming season by disrupting key supply chains, according to Nyasa Times. The Fertiliser Association of Malawi warns that 35 percent of the nation's urea imports and 23 percent of its phosphate-based fertilisers pass through the affected transport corridors. With the Food and Agriculture Organization projecting global fertiliser prices to remain up to 20 percent higher in early 2026, experts at the Centre for Agricultural Research and Development are warning of potential input shortages and rising inflation.
The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) is urging Malawian women in agribusiness to apply for the 2026 Women Agripreneurs of the Year Awards, MBC reports. Launched by AGRA President Alice Ruhweza, the initiative offers a $300,000 grant pool to support female leadership in the agriculture sector. Ruhweza highlighted Mzuzu-based Lusungu Mwale, founder of Lweya Honey, as a leading example of successful local agribusiness. Applications remain open until May 8.
Update: The ongoing drop in local maize prices continues to draw concern from farming advocates, according to Nation Online. Farmers Union of Malawi President Maness Nkhata noted that new maize is selling at an average of K35,000 per 50-kilogramme bag, falling well short of the K1,060 per kilogramme break-even point. While the Consumers Association of Malawi has welcomed the affordable prices as a relief for households, grain traders attribute the low market rates to high moisture content in the newly harvested crop.