International Potato Centre, CIP organized a learning visit for the new Head of Cooperation, Sarah McCan at Embassy of Ireland in Malawi and all CIP partners.

The visit included tours of the RTC labs and research fields at IITA’s Chitedze Research Station (focusing on cassava) and Bvumbwe Research Station (specializing in potato and orange-fleshed sweet potatoes). The team also visited several farmer groups in Dedza and Zomba, where farmers proudly showcased their fields and the seeds they are multiplying. They also shared the successes they’ve achieved with RTC farming.

At St. Anthony Primary School, the team, joined by the World Food Programme Malawi (WFP), saw how potatoes and orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are being integrated into the Home School Feeding Program. Farmers also spoke about the benefits of the Online Marketing Facility developed by ACE, which integrates Zaulimi App, SMS and WhatsApp. This platform is helping RTC players to market their RTC products, access quality seed, and receive agricultural advisories.

The visit highlighted the positive impact of these partnerships and innovations on improving food security and supporting local farming communities.