Gala Agriculture Smallholder Training Day
Smallholder farmers in Namitete receive comprehensive training in macadamia farming.
The training sessions, held at Gala Agriculture estate, on Monday 18th December 2023, commenced with an insightful presentation on macadamias, providing farmers with a thorough understanding of the crop's history and phenological nature. Participants delved into the origins of macadamias and gained valuable insights into the growth stages and seasonal characteristics of the crop.
Furthermore, Gala Agriculture shared the history and current status of their operations, shedding light on their role in the macadamia industry in Malawi. The company's commitment to sustainable farming practices and community development was highlighted, setting the stage for collaboration with smallholder farmers from surrounding communities.
Following the presentations, farmers participated in a hands-on field demonstration, where they learned firsthand the proper techniques for planting macadamia seedlings. This practical session provided participants with valuable skills that they can apply in their own farms, ensuring successful establishment and management of macadamia orchards.
In the final presentation of the day, farmers were educated on the nutritional requirements of macadamia trees and the benefits of intercropping in orchards. This session emphasized the importance of balanced nutrition for optimal tree health and productivity, while also highlighting suitable companion crops for intercropping.
Following the intensive training program, the smallholder farmers were treated to a tour of Gala Agriculture's state-of-the-art dehusking, sorting, and drying facility. This hands-on experience provided participants with a firsthand glimpse into the post-harvest processing stages of macadamia nuts, showcasing Gala Agriculture's commitment to quality control and value addition.
The tour not only offered valuable insights into modern processing techniques but also served as a source of inspiration for the farmers, highlighting the potential for value addition within the macadamia industry and further motivating them to adopt best practices in their own farming endeavors.