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Under the vibrant sun of Rumphi, a group of farmers stood proudly at the first Agriculture Show they had ever attended, their produce gleaming like jewels against the backdrop of colorful tents and bustling crowds.

For the farmers of Mlangale Two Incubator, this event organised by Rumphi Agriculture office and its partners Thursday this week in the district was not just an exhibition; it was a celebration of hard work, resilience, and newfound hope.

The Agriculture Show that ended today Friday was a culmination of months of effort, driven by the Transform program which is being implemented by Cadecom, the developmental arm of the Mzuzu Diocese.

Funded by NCA/DCA, this initiative focuses on enhancing agricultural practices in the Mzimba North and South and Rumphi districts, with a particular emphasis on drip irrigation and crop diversification.

Cadecom Commissioner, Dan Zimba thinks with optimism as he spoke about the program’s impact.

“The response is good, and I think at the end of the day, we will all celebrate,” he said.

Zimba’s words echoed the sentiments of many farmers who had begun to see tangible results from their hard work.

Chairperson of Mlangale Two Incubator Moses Msiska, shared his excitement as he surveyed the fairgrounds filled with fellow farmers and potential buyers.

“We started this group with about 15 members, but it has now shrunk to 9 due to various challenges. Yet, we are so excited to be here today,” he said, gesturing toward their vibrant display of tomatoes, okra, and watermelons—crops that had matured within just four months thanks to the techniques they learned through the program.

Cadecom’s initiative is about more than just growing crops; it’s about transforming agriculture into a viable business.

Farmers are grouped into incubators and provided with essential farm inputs: 15 drip kits per group, sprayers, fertilizers, chemicals, and seeds.

The goal is to cultivate not only crops but also a mindset geared towards profitability and sustainability.

Despite facing challenges such as market access and crop diseases, the farmers were optimistic. They relied on extension workers who assured them of market opportunities.

“We want to sustain our project even after the Transform program ends,” Msiska stated, highlighting their commitment to their agricultural journey.

As they showcased their produce at the fair, the farmers engaged with other producers and potential buyers, eager to network and learn from one another.

The initiative has not only increased production but also reduced workloads through efficient farming techniques.

Farmers like Msiska have found renewed purpose in their work—transforming their fields into thriving businesses while nurturing community ties among fellow incubator members.

For these farmers, attending the Agriculture Show marked a pivotal moment in their agricultural journey—a chance to shine in the spotlight and share their stories of resilience and growth.

As they packed up their displays at the end of the day while cool breeze from the famous Chipoka Bawoli and Mayembe hills say bye also, they carried with them not just produce but also a renewed sense of purpose and community spirit.

With support from Cadecom and a commitment to reinvest in their futures, these farmers are not just cultivating crops; they are cultivating dreams—dreams that stretch far beyond the fields of Rumphi into a future filled with promise.