ZEB WhatsApp Group : An Exchange and Training Tool for Malawian Farmers

The ZEB WhatsApp group, acronym for Zombwe, Emsizini, and Bwengu representing the geographical areas of Fert Walima’s (FW) work was established following a workshop organized on the 2nd of February 2023.

The workshop aimed, among other things, to develop a price calendar and discuss a sheet regarding possible crop rotations, inspired by the techno-economic workshops conducted during the International Fert Meetings in Côte d’Ivoire. Initially composed of 18 members, including farmers, agricultural technicians, and field officers, the group aimed to enhance real-time information sharing on the marketing of agricultural produce and related challenges.

CHALLENGES FACED INITIALLY

Despite noble intentions, the ZEB Group experienced a slow start, with only one farmer and one field officer engaging into the discussions. The lack of clear guidelines led members to share diverse content, making the group less appealing. This situation resulted in a six-months dormancy period, prompting a reassessment of the group’s strategy.

REVIVING THE GROUP

To revive ZEB, Fert Walima team decided to entrust the facilitation to one of its local agricultural advisors. The latter has organized training sessions on subjects related to livestock and crop management, encouraging the acquisition of knowledge and the creation of a community among members. With this change of organization, it was decided not only to address technical aspects of agriculture but also to encourage farmers to share their difficulties.

KEY TRAINING INITIATIVES

Initial training sessions covered topics not included in the action plans of farmers’ organizations, thereby diversifying their knowledge. The sessions focused on livestock such as rabbits, guinea fowls, and pigeons. Topics were expanded to include chicken diseases, manure production, and maize production. The group members also exchanged informations related to weather forecasts for the upcoming growing season, selling prices of some agricultural products and input costs.

The group now includes around fifty producers partners of Fert Walima and has become an important tool for them. ZEB is used as a platform to train producers (including between themselves), offer advice, and facilitate exchanges : discussions and photos are numerous every day !

CHALLENGES FACED INITIALLY

REVIVING THE GROUP

KEY TRAINING INITIATIVES

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