Malawi launches 'local fridge' to save farmers from post-harvest losses
Farmers in Mwachirwa Village in Bolero, Mzimba in northern Malawi can now preserve their fresh farm produce for a longer period after harvest with the introduction of a local refrigerator.
According to local media outlet The Nation, the locally-made cooling chamber called Double Ward-Zero is used by farmers in the Traditional Authority Chikulamayembe to preserve their crops, thereby reducing post-harvest losses which they have grappled with in the past.
The local refrigerator made from local materials has two walls with sand and water placed in between for its cooling effect.
As a result of this, produce including tomatoes can now stay at least twenty-one (21) days and vegetables seven (7) days without losing freshness and quality.
Lead Agronomist for the Catholic Development Commission in Malawi, an implementing partner under the Transform programme, Thokozani Mpomba said the initiative is tackling post-harvest loss challenges faced by farmers in the area.
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
Spain’s migration minister faces protests during Ceuta visit
“The technology uses the humidity, where the air comes from outside and it goes in between the walls and then it brings the cool air inside. This technology can reduce post-harvest losses by 36 percent,” Thokozani is quoted by The Nation.
The Transform programme, according to the report, has introduced simple, affordable and effective agriculture practices to ensure smallholder farmers achieve quality and quantity for their homes and markets.
It seeks to strengthen local food systems and promote sustainable food security.
