Embedded Files
Welcome
LUANAR
Extension Department
A Brief History of Agricultural Extension in Malawi
A Brief History of Agricultural Extension in Malawi
Agricultural Extension in Malawi began in the early 20th century, introduced by colonial authorities to boost agricultural productivity and improve food security. Over time, it evolved to address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, adapting to local needs with government-led initiatives and community-based approaches. Post-independence, Malawi expanded extension services to support sustainable farming and rural development.
Agricultural Extension in Malawi began in the early 20th century, introduced by colonial authorities to boost agricultural productivity and improve food security. Over time, it evolved to address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, adapting to local needs with government-led initiatives and community-based approaches. Post-independence, Malawi expanded extension services to support sustainable farming and rural development.
At LUANAR, the Extension Department carries forward this legacy, training future extension workers to enhance agricultural practices across the country. By equipping students with knowledge, practical skills, and community engagement techniques, LUANAR continues to play a critical role in strengthening Malawi's agricultural sector and empowering rural communities.
At LUANAR, the Extension Department carries forward this legacy, training future extension workers to enhance agricultural practices across the country. By equipping students with knowledge, practical skills, and community engagement techniques, LUANAR continues to play a critical role in strengthening Malawi's agricultural sector and empowering rural communities.
Meet LUANAR Agri-Extension Department team
Dr. Paul Falakeza Fatch
Dr. Paul Falakeza Fatch is a distinguished agricultural extension and rural development professional with a career spanning over 15 years in Malawi's agricultural sector. He began his journey in the Ministry of Agriculture, where he served in various extension roles from 2005 to 2015. Since then, Dr. Fatch has been a lecturer at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), where he now heads the Department of Extension.
Dr. Fatch is highly active in the agricultural advisory community, holding positions such as Vice Board Chairperson for the African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS) and Secretary General for the Malawi Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (MaFAAS). He holds a Master’s in Rural Development and Extension, as well as a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Extension from the University of Malawi. His contributions include the establishment of MaFAAS and development of various extension training materials used throughout Malawi.
LUANAR Extension Department Major Achievements
Capacity Building for Extension Professionals:
LUANAR’s Extension Department has established comprehensive training programs, equipping future agricultural extension workers with essential skills in rural development, community engagement, and modern agricultural practices. These programs produce skilled professionals who contribute to Malawi’s agricultural sector by improving smallholder productivity.
Pioneering Agricultural Advisory Services:
The department, through collaborations with organizations like the Malawi Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (MaFAAS) and African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS), has helped advance advisory services across Malawi. These partnerships strengthen the country’s extension network and ensure effective agricultural support for farmers.
Research and Development in Agricultural Extension:
Faculty members have led impactful research projects addressing agricultural diversity, food security, and sustainable practices. For instance, studies like the "HealthyLAND" project funded by the German Ministry of Agriculture have explored agricultural diversity practices and nutrition links, benefiting smallholder farmers across Malawi.
Community-Based Extension Programs:
The department has developed innovative, community-based extension approaches, including lead farmer models and farmer field schools, which have empowered farmers to adopt and share best practices. These programs enhance peer-to-peer learning, improve farming techniques, and increase resilience in rural communities.
Development of Training Materials for Extension Staff:
The Extension Department has been instrumental in creating standardized training manuals and guidelines used nationwide. These materials cover critical extension methodologies, such as harmonized demonstrations and conservation agriculture, providing extension officers with structured resources to better support local farmers
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse