Parliamentary proposes transfer of AIP to SFFRFM

The Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources has recommended that the Affordable Inputs Program (AIP) be transferred to the Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi (SFFRFM).

Presenting the report, Committee Vice Chairperson Ulemu Chilapondwa stated that AIP should no longer be managed by the Ministry of Agriculture but instead be overseen by SFFRFM.

Chilapondwa noted that SFFRFM faces challenges, mainly due to a shortage of foreign exchange, which affects its operations.

He emphasized that the government should provide adequate funding to ensure the institution functions effectively.

Additionally, the committee has proposed dissolving the Cotton Council of Malawi, arguing that cotton farming has been in decline and should be fully managed by the Ministry of Agriculture.