LUANAR through its Horticulture Department, has partnered with international Non-Governmental Organisation, SOLIDARIDAD, to train 50 lead farmers from Mchinji District in oyster mushroom production.

The two-day training, which commenced today at LUANAR's Bunda Campus, aims to equip the selected farmers with practical skills and knowledge in mushroom production. The 50 lead farmers are expected to transfer the knowledge gained to an additional 950 farmers working with SOLIDARIDAD across Mchinji District, extending the impact of the initiative to more farming households.

Speaking during the official opening of the training on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Director of the Centre for Continuing Education and Professional Development (CCEPD), Dr Kakota, highlighted the importance of promoting value crops as part of the Government's agricultural transformation agenda, identifying mushrooms as one of the crops with significant potential.
She emphasised that mushroom production offers farmers an opportunity to diversify their agricultural activities without requiring large pieces of land.

"Mushroom production is an ideal enterprise for farmers because it does not require extensive land. It can be done in your backyard and throughout the year, making it a viable source of income and food for households," said Dr Kakota.
On behalf of the Department of Horticulture, Dr Vincent Mgoli Mwale highlighted the practical nature of the partnership, noting that the collaboration goes beyond training to include the provision of mushroom spawn (seed) and continued technical support to farmers.

"Through this partnership, LUANAR will not only equip the lead farmers with practical skills in oyster mushroom production but will also supply the mushroom spawn and provide technical backup to ensure that farmers receive the necessary support as they implement the knowledge gained in their respective communities," said Dr Mgoli Mwale.

The training features both theoretical and practical sessions, with Dr Mgoli Mwale leading participants through presentations on the fundamentals of oyster mushroom production, housing and substrate making. His delivery will be followed by Dr Rowland Kamanga who will cover the physiology and care of oyster mushrooms. Tomorrow, Dr Jacinta Nyaika will engage participants in issues around post-harvest handling and value addition for mushrooms. The training will finalize with practical demonstrations of mushroom substrate making and mushroom house construction.

The partnership is a two-year initiative that seeks to strengthen farmers' capacity in mushroom production as an alternative agricultural enterprise that can contribute to household income, improve food and nutrition security, and diversify livelihood opportunities among farming communities. This is part of a significant component for LUANAR as it strives to strengthen its footprint in outreach and stakeholder collaboration.