Malawi Training Program on Fertiliser Production and Management at the South China Agricultural University in Guangzhou and Guangdong

The global agricultural landscape is undergoing a significant transformation driven by the demands of climate resilience, food security, and sustainable intensification. For Malawi, a nation where agriculture is central to livelihoods and economic stability, embracing advanced and efficient farming systems is essential to future development.

In this context, the Malawi Training Program on Fertiliser Production and Management was established as a strategic initiative to enhance technical expertise, facilitate technology transfer, and support the modernisation of Malawi's agricultural sector. Implemented by South China Agricultural University from 1-14 December 2025, the program provided Malawian delegates with direct exposure to China's innovative agricultural systems through a combination of academic instruction, practical laboratory sessions, and immersive field-based learning.

The core objectives of this field-based learning component were to showcase scalable and efficient models of soilless cultivation, hydroponic systems, and integrated nutrient management. It also aimed to demonstrate the production, application, and benefits of liquid fertilisers and precision fertigation technologies. Another key objective was to highlight the integration of digital tools, such as drones, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, into farm management and value chain development. Ultimately, the program sought to equip participants with actionable insights and adaptable strategies to improve agricultural productivity, sustainability, and commercial viability in Malawi.

The program has significantly enriched my technical and strategic perspective, moving beyond abstract concepts to deliver tangible, adaptable methodologies for sustainable agricultural innovation. The integrated models observed, spanning precision nutrient management, digital tool deployment, and synergistic institutional partnerships, offer an actionable blueprint for accelerating my research on granulated urine fertilisers. These insights are directly transferable to southern Malawi, where enhancing climate resilience and food security for marginalised communities is paramount.

My attendance was made possible through the support of the Future Africa Research Leadership Fellowship (FAR-LeaF II) programme, which seeks to advance climate-resilient and equitable agricultural innovation in Africa. I extend my sincere gratitude to Future Africa and the University of Pretoria for the critical support provided through the FAR LeaF II fellowship, which enabled this transformative learning opportunity. The investment has not only advanced my individual capacity but has also strengthened the potential impact of our collective work towards equitable and sustainable agricultural development in Africa.

I look forward to actively integrating these insights into the next phase of my fellowship activities and to exploring avenues for collaborative projects that leverage the connections and knowledge gained. I am prepared to discuss how these strategic learnings can be operationalised within the FAR LeaF II framework to foster innovation, build resilience, and contribute meaningfully to food security in climate-vulnerable regions.

Research visit report by Dr Jabulani Nyengere reworked for publication by Leti Kleyn.