This study examines the impact of seasonality on the profitability of smallholder tomato farmers in rural areas of Malawi. The Malawian government has implemented initiatives to promote horticultural crop production, including tomatoes, to reduce reliance on tobacco as the primary source of foreign exchange earnings. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from 75 participants in the Thyolo District of Malawi was collected and analyzed. The study evaluates profits in different seasons, compares average earnings in winter and summer, and investigates price variations in markets. Findings show that tomato prices are higher in summer, reflecting the inverse relationship between prices and production cycles. Tomato production remains financially viable in both seasons, but the dry season is more economically rewarding with higher gross profits. The study recommends empowering farmers to increase year-round tomato cultivation. Further research could explore factors contributing to profitability disparities between seasons and investigate the impact of weather conditions and climate change on tomato production. The findings have important implications for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders interested in sustainable agriculture and rural development in Malawi. تفاصيل المقالة

The Lead Farmer Approach (LFA) has emerged as a vital strategy for agricultural extension services in developing nations like Malawi, aiming to disseminate new technologies and practices among smallholder farmers. This study investigates the impact of LFA on follower farmers' (FFs) knowledge and practice of Conservation Agriculture (CA) in Malawi. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study conducted household surveys and focus group discussions in the Kalira Environmental Protection Area, Ntchisi district. Results indicate a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in FFs' knowledge of CA post-LFA, with notable advancements in crop rotation and minimum soil disturbance understanding. The LFA also positively influenced FFs' CA practices, particularly in minimum soil disturbances, permanent ground cover, and integration of agroforestry trees. While intercropping and crop rotation showed no significant change, the overall impact underscores the effectiveness of LFA in enhancing FFs' understanding and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. The findings contribute valuable insights for governments, development agencies, and researchers working toward promoting CA and sustainable agriculture through the LFA approach, emphasizing its potential scalability and long-term sustainability تفاصيل المقالة

This study explores the attitude of follower farmers (FFs) towards lead farmers (LFs) in facilitating Conservation Agriculture (CA) practices in the Kalira Extension Planning Area of Ntchisi district, Malawi. Despite governmental efforts to promote CA through the National Agriculture Policy of 2016, previous studies have indicated low adoption rates. This research employs a mixed methods approach, utilizing surveys and focus group discussions. Results reveal positive perceptions among FFs regarding LFs' competence in training, demonstrations, problem-solving, and other competencies. The majority of FFs perceive LFs as effective in imparting CA principles and conducting demonstrations. LFs' problem-solving abilities and additional competencies are well-regarded by FFs. The study concludes with a call for further research on socio-economic factors influencing sustained CA adoption and recommends establishing a continuous feedback loop between LFs and FFs to enhance knowledge exchange and address evolving challenges in CA practices. The findings contribute to the existing literature and provide valuable insights for agricultural and rural development initiatives. تفاصيل المقالة