By Redson Kandozi
Agripreneurship in Malawi is often perceived as a fallback career for those who have struggled academically. However, Joy Chapeta, owner of Mcheneka Farm in Lilongwe’s T/A M'bwatalika, is challenging this perception by demonstrating that agriculture is not only a viable career path but also a rewarding one for the educated and passionate.
In an interview, Chapeta, who has been managing Mcheneka Farms since 2019, emphasized that agripreneurship requires more than mere interest; it demands passion, determination, and a commitment to continuous learning.
“Agriculture is not for the faint-hearted. To succeed, you must be prepared for challenges ranging from unforeseen weather conditions to market fluctuations. A deep passion for farming will drive you to persevere through tough times,” she says.
For Chapeta, who named Mcheneka Farm after her home village, farming is not a simple endeavor but a complex operation requiring hands-on involvement and a commitment to learning.
“You need to be hands-on, supervise your team, and continuously upgrade your knowledge. Modern agriculture heavily relies on technology and advanced farming techniques. Investing in education and staying updated with the latest agricultural trends is vital,” she adds.
With relatively few young people involved in agripreneurship, Chapeta believes that changing their perception of agriculture starts with showcasing the innovative, high-tech aspects of modern farming. She says:
“Agriculture is no longer a field for those who have failed academically. It’s about technology, innovation, and contributing to national food security. By highlighting success stories and demonstrating the broader economic impact of agripreneurship, young people will view it as a viable and prestigious career.”
According to Chapeta, networking has been crucial to growing her business, allowing her to share ideas, learn from others, and access markets and resources. She notes that networking has led to valuable referrals, business opportunities, and advice critical to Mcheneka Farm’s growth.
Despite the opportunities in agriculture, Chapeta acknowledges that women in Malawi face significant barriers in agribusiness, particularly in accessing land, farming inputs, and financial resources. She believes that empowering women in agribusiness requires addressing these specific challenges.
“Forming women’s farming groups and cooperatives can provide a support network and collective bargaining power. Through these groups, women can partner with companies to access resources, training, and markets,” she suggests.
While securing financing remains a significant challenge for agripreneurs, Chapeta advises caution regarding loans due to the difficulties in obtaining them and the discouraging interest rates.
“I started Mcheneka Farm using personal savings, and reinvesting profits from initial farming activities helped finance expansion. I discourage taking loans, especially at the start. Instead, I recommend starting small with whatever resources you have and expanding as your business grows,” she advises.
Looking ahead, Chapeta has ambitious plans for Mcheneka Farm. She aims to further diversify her operations, including potential ventures into poultry and exploring opportunities with indigenous crops. Infrastructure development and improving productivity remain top priorities.
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