Banana farming in Molere, Thyolo, is set for a major boost following the implementation of a new banana restoration program by the Centre for Agricultural Transformation (CAT).

The initiative aims to revive banana production, which was once a major source of income for farmers in Thyolo and Mulanje districts. Over 1,000 farmers have already benefited from the project in Thyolo, which targets to reach 39,000 farmers across the area within the next five years.

Speaking on Thursday, during a banana demonstration at Mufunga Village, Traditional Authority Khwethemule, CAT Executive Director, Macleod Nkhoma, called on farmers in both districts to join hands with government and partners to restore banana farming in the country.

“Banana is one of the major cash crops in the country, and it requires joint efforts to restore its productivity, especially in Thyolo and Mulanje, which used to be Malawi’s leading producers,” said Nkhoma.

He described it as worrisome that Malawi continues to import bananas, yet the crop was once abundantly grown locally.

He added “It is a concern that the country is losing foreign exchange by importing bananas which can easily be grown here. Farmers must start viewing banana farming as a business to reduce import dependence and boost exports"

Director of Agriculture Services in Thyolo, Jackson Mvula, concurred with Nkhoma, stressing that banana should not only be treated as a cash crop but also as a vital food crop that supports household nutrition and income.

“Banana is both a food and a commercial crop; therefore, there is a need for serious implementation of this program to make it effective and beneficial to farmers across the country,” said Mvula.

In his remarks, Senior Chief Khwethemule, commended CAT and its partners for reviving banana production in his area. He recalled that Molere and other parts of Thyolo were once known for producing bananas in large quantities before the crop was devastated by disease and prolonged drought.

“The disappearance of banana production brought numerous challenges to our people because it was one of the most reliable cash crops in the district. We are grateful that this project is giving farmers new hope,” said Chief Khwethemule.

One of the lead farmers, Henry Mafunga, expressed optimism that with renewed passion and proper management, banana farming can thrive again.

He urged fellow farmers to adapt to changing climatic conditions by embracing drought-tolerant crops and modern farming practices.

CAT is implementing the banana restoration project with financial support from the National Bank of Malawi. The project is expected to increase household income, enhance food security, and contribute to the country’s foreign exchange earnings through banana exports.