By Correspondence
Imagine Hunger in a heating world! Not surprising that food security is almost every policy maker’s headache. Amongst other factors, climate change is on the spot for fuelling hunger for millions of people around the world. Extreme weather scenarios have increased five-fold over the past 50 years destroying homes, livelihoods, infrastructure and exerting pressure on already depleted resources – setting pace for increased conflict and displacements while exacerbating inequalities.
All hope is not lost as communities rise to the realisation that if resources – knowledge and skills – acquired over time can translate to the much needed solutions in addressing hunger and malnutrition at micro-level.
In Salima District, Central Malawi, Christopher Kasiyamphanje, an expert in Irrigation Technology and Cross-border Agriculture, (Lolongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources College (LUANAR) and Kinneret Agriculture Training Center in Malawi and Israel respectively) is challenging traditional farming practices and redefining land ownership using sack gardens and MI drip kits as entry point.

This project has translated to improved self esteem among women, better income and steadily alleviating poverty and hidden hunger among households.
Bridging Borders with Knowledge and Technology
Christopher’s journey into the world of innovative agriculture is marked by extensive cross-border training. His hands-on experience with various crops and sophisticated technologies, has been enriched by his collaboration with international organizations, companies abroad, and governmental bodies within Malawi. This diverse exposure has fueled his passion and expertise, making his work both engaging and impactful. “working away from my country, as an intern with the government and some international organisations has made my field of study and work very interesting and enjoyable”, he affirms.
Sack Gardening vs traditional farming:A Compact Solution to Big Problems

According to Christopher, sack gardening, a method that is gaining traction in his project catchment area. Unlike conventional farming, sack gardening offers numerous advantages:
Energy and Time Efficiency: This method requires minimal watering and labor, conserving both energy and time.
Space Optimization: Ideal for urban settings or areas with limited space, sack gardening maximizes productivity in small areas.
Labor Reduction: The need for weeding is virtually eliminated, reducing the physical effort required.
Enhanced Drainage and Aeration: The vertical arrangement of sacks improves soil drainage and root aeration, promoting healthier plant growth.
Currently, Christopher is spearheading a project aimed at strengthening household resilience through sack gardening. This innovative cultivation system not only introduces an efficient farming technique but also supports families by enabling them to grow their own food and sell surplus produce in local markets.
MI Drip Kits: Precision in Irrigation

Complementing sack gardening is Christopher’s use of MI drip kits. This irrigation technology ensures precise water delivery to plants, optimizing water use and enhancing crop yields. By implementing this system at both community and household levels, farmers can achieve sustainable and productive gardens, regardless of land ownership issues.
Empowering Women Through Agriculture
One of the most significant impacts of Christopher’s work is the empowerment of women. “Women have shown remarkable interest in sack gardening training sessions, quickly adopting and practicing the methods” he says.. This not only boosts their agricultural skills but also increases their financial independence as they sell their produce. The success of these women serves as a catalyst for community-wide adoption of innovative farming practices.
Promoting Organic Farming
In addition to introducing new farming techniques, Christopher advocates for the use of organic manure over synthetic fertilizers. Through training sessions, he educates farmers on producing and utilizing organic manure, promoting practices like pit planting that align with sustainable agriculture. This shift towards organic farming not only enhances soil health, but also reduces the environmental impact of synthetic fertilizers.
Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities

Despite the benefits, sack gardening faces challenges such as the initial cost of sacks and water scarcity. Christopher acknowledges these hurdles, but sees potential solutions. He proposes a system where farmers can receive sacks on credit and repay with a portion of their harvests. This model not only makes sack gardening accessible to more families, but also creates job opportunities for community members to manage and maintain these gardens.
Looking Ahead
Christopher Kasiyamphanje’s innovative approaches to farming are setting new standards for sustainable agriculture in Malawi. By transforming waste spaces into productive gardens and promoting eco-friendly practices, he is fostering a culture of resilience and self-sufficiency. His vision of redefining land ownership—turning it from a fixed asset into a movable one—holds promise for a future, where agriculture adapts to the needs and constraints of modern life.
Through his dedication and ingenuity, Christopher is not just cultivating crops, but a movement towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for Malawian communities. As his methods gain traction, the ripple effects of his work could inspire similar innovations across the globe.