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Alice Francisco`s dream realized: Strengthening Production and Market Capacity Project.

"I learnt the techniques of irrigation farming. I grew maize, eggplants, pepper, tomatoes and ended up with a bumper harvest. I sold the produce and made over MK2 million. I then reinvested that money into a Village Savings and Loan (VSL) group to earn more interest. With the earnings, I was able to buy three cows and eight goats, I also completed my house. It has been an incredible journey and I have a beautiful home and thriving livestock," says Alice Francisco, her voice full of emotion and gratitude.

The 40-year-old mother of five, from Sub Traditional Authority Phimbi in Balaka District, reflects on her journey of transformation since she became part of the Strengthening Production and Market Capacity for Smallholder Farmers in Malawi project. Her life has undergone a remarkable change and she can hardly believe the difference the project has made.

Before joining the project in 2020, Alice's life was a constant struggle to make ends meet. She struggled to gather K80,000 for school fees for her two children in secondary school. Her financial challenges were compounded by unreliable rainfall and limited resources. Today, however, Alice is filled with pride as she shows off her achievements.

"Look at my beautiful house and my livestock, I now have five cows! This is all because of the Village Savings and Loan (VSL) concept. Life is no longer tough. Now, I can afford to pay school fees for my children without the stress and worry I used to face. Before, I had to do savings and loans any way I could, but now, through the VSL concept that CARD taught me, I have a clear path to follow. These changes have made me self-sufficient and I am more confident in my future." Alice shared.

Alice has embraced conservation agriculture techniques to combat drought and enhance soil fertility, significantly boosting her productivity. Through the project, she gained valuable knowledge about innovative farming methods that conserve moisture and protect the soil-essential strategies for her region, which often experiences dry spells. Additionally, Alice introduced irrigation farming and expanded into growing eggplant, tomatoes and pepper. As a result, her harvests have increased dramatically, providing her family with a steady food supply, even during challenging weather conditions.

The support Alice has received does not end with farming techniques and savings groups. The introduction of cash transfers through the project has brought even more excitement. "We are now receiving MK90,000.00 per household, this money is going to help us a lot and further improve my family's well-being," Alice said.

Alice has big plans for the future. She dreams of completing her house, buying a motorcycle to ease transportation and even opening a bank account to save for her children's education. With the tools, resources and knowledge the project has given her, Alice is confidently moving toward a brighter future.

"I'm forever grateful to CARD, CFGB and PSWD for this life-changing project. God bless you all," she says, her gratitude overflowing.

The Strengthening Production and Market Capacity for Smallholder Farmers project, supported by the Canadian Food Grains Bank, (CFGB) through Presbyterian World Service and Development (PWS&D) has had a profound impact on Alice's life and the lives of many others in Balaka district. Through innovative farming methods, savings programs and now cash transfers, smallholder farmers like Alice are transforming their futures, one step at a time.