Rural Malawians on building back after Cyclone Freddy – Episode 59

In March 2023, Cyclone Freddy swept across Malawi, devastating a country already struggling with hunger and poverty. But a year on, hope for a brighter future is returning to its farms.

On this episode, you'll hear directly from the rural Malawians who are building back stronger with IFAD's support. Our Country Director for Malawi, Bernadette Mukonyora, gives us an insight into the path to recovery along with regional climate experts Amos Mailosi and Denis Zingeni.

Meanwhile, IFAD Recipes for Change chef Sophie Grigson speaks about her experience visiting the country earlier this year.

Meet the resilient small-scale farmers featured:

Jennifer Mayeso

Jennifer is the lead farmer of the Masocole Cooperative. She's diversifying the crops in her garden so she is more food-secure. Try out the traditional Malawian recipe she cooked with Sophie Grigson.

Alefa Ofesa and Lloyd Phale

Alefa Ofesa and Lloyd Phale cultivate maize, peanuts, beans, and vegetables, as well as rearing free-range chickens. Thanks to training and technology, their productivity has soared. The extra income supports their children's education.

Kondwani McNight

Kondwani lost his home and livestock to Cyclone Freddy. He hopes rabbit farming can improve his nutrition and income, while fulfilling his entrepreneurial dreams.

Rhoda Zululu

Rhoda's house and fields were flooded by Cyclone Freddy. With support from IFAD’s Climate Response Initiative, she now cultivates more soya, boosting her income and preventing soil erosion.

Kitty Siliya

Kitty saw her field washed away by Cyclone Freddy. IFAD’s Crisis Response Initiative aided with maize seeds and fertilizer, instilling hope for improved crop yields.

Also on this episode

• Sophie Grigson, IFAD Recipes for Change chef
• Amos Mailosi, Regional Environment and Climate Change Officer, TRADE Programme.
• Bernadette Mukonyora, IFAD Country Director, Malawi.
• Denis Emmanuel Zingeni, Chief Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources Officer, SAPP Programme, Malawi

Find out more at https://www.ifad.org/en/podcasts/

Get in touch at [email protected].