The Minister of Agriculture Sam Kawale has reaffirmed that Malawi will continue to rely on agriculture as the backbone of its economy.

Kawale said agriculture remains a key driver for national development and self-reliance, but emphasized that this will only be possible if the sector fully embraces modern farming methods.

He further noted that government is prioritizing investments that support young people, women, and smallholder farmers, describing these groups as central to driving the country’s economic growth through agriculture.

The Minister made the remarks on Thursday in Blantyre during the official opening of the 21st National Agriculture Fair, which runs until August 30 at Chichiri Trade Fair Grounds.

President of the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), Dr. Wisely Phiri, expressed satisfaction with the increased participation at this year’s fair, which has attracted 150 exhibitors compared to 85 last year.