Almost half the number of suppliers contracted for distribution of farm inputs under the AIP have so far failed to meet their contractual obligations, Malawi Metro Online has learnt.
The revelation comes as already the programme is experiencing numerous challenges where in worst cases beneficiaries are spending nights at selling points due to network glitches.
Such challenges have forced the Agriculture commitee of parliament to embark on an exercise of visiting selling points as well as engaging supppliers to appreciate the challenges.
On Thursday, the committee made a surprise visit to Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi – SFFRFM in Kanengo.
Speaking to Malawi Metro Online, Sameer Suleman, Parliamentary commitee Chairperson said it is worrisome that currently, some suppliers are pulling out from the program.
He said, this should be a learning process for government to plan well in the next program.
“It is sad that the suppliers have decided to disappoint Malawians at this point of time when
rains are already here, this should be a lesson to government, in the next program vet the capacity of the suppliers you give contracts to” said Suleman.
Meanwhile, Erica Maganga, Principal Secretary in the ministry of Agriculture has said the ministry is engaging suppliers who have failed to deliver to map the way forward.
On his part, Dr Andy Kalinde, Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi Chief Executive Officer has conceded that they are facing Transport challenges to take the fertilizer to selling points.
Meanwhile, Agriculture minister Lobin Lowe is expected to address the Nation on friday on issues surrounding the program.
