Clement Taonani Story

In the last growing season year 2022, Clement produced 10,000 tons of biochar which part of it was applied on his farm with the other half sold locally  for business. To generate income, he sells a 50kg bag of biochar at 5 Euros. As part of using this organic fertilizer he has managed to harvest 12,000 bags of maize which he sells as 30 Euros per a 50 kg bag. Similarly, he also has harvested 3,000 bags of unpolished rice which he sells at 40 Euros per a 50 kg bag.  In addition to his agribusinesses he also sells smoked pork, vegetables, fresh meat and milk as well as fruits mainly to community members as his potential customers. By promoting easy access to services in his community, Clement owns a maize mill that is accessed at a low cost and prioritizes the use of millet (waste remnants) for feed and organic manure.

Nthawi farms serves more than just an agricultural venture; it is importantly a hub for community development through providing access to local markets as well as creation of employment opportunities. Through this Clement has marked a positive impact in his community and youths through employing 75 seasonal laborers and 30 permanent employees. Additionally, he hosts interns from different universities including Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) and Mwimba College of Agriculture,  particularly for internship and research programs  as a way of increasing skills and knowledge for students.

Inevitably, Clement’s journey has been marked by several challenges. Looking back at his journey, capital was a problem as well as securing grants and loans to finance his agribusinesses. Through the trainings attained from EYA! ATVET,  he managed to maximize his potentials in granting funds and managing finances. Climate change being the major problem with irresistible scarcity of water and harsh weather affects his productivity as well. Through the usage of solar irrigation, water is easily made accessible yearly round and through the practice of organic farming his productivity increases highly.

In the years to come, Clement Tawonani envisions on expanding Nthawi farms in different districts in Malawi to increase food production and creation of employment opportunities in Agriculture to youths and his community. In addition, to increase food production and sustainability, the young farmer intends on venturing into syntropic farming to preserve food and stock all year round. Agribusiness has proven to be a great deal in improving his livelihood and community’s well-being. As a passionate and determined young farmer, he continues to give back to his community through investing