Malawi farmers see fourfold increase in crop yields

LILONGWE - Malawi farmers participating in Sovereign Metals Limited’s (AIM:SVML) conservation farming program achieved a fourfold increase in crop yields compared to traditional farming methods, according to a company press release statement.

The program, which expanded to include 350 farmers in 2025, up from 90 participants in its initial 2024 season, focuses on sustainable farming techniques including crop rotation, minimal tillage, organic mulching, and composting.

The top-performing farmer in the 2025 season harvested 12.8 tonnes per hectare, representing a tenfold increase over conventional farming yields. This compares to the previous season’s top yield of 6 tonnes per hectare.

Half of the program participants are women, according to the company. Farmers who produced surplus crops have reportedly sold their excess harvest and used proceeds to upgrade their homes and invest in trading businesses.

The conservation farming initiative operates near Sovereign’s Kasiya Rutile Graphite Project in Malawi, where the company is conducting a definitive feasibility study. The program aims to improve food security and prevent soil degradation while supporting local communities in the project area.

Sovereign Metals launched the program in 2024 as part of its community development efforts. Despite drought conditions attributed to El Niño during the first year, participating farmers still reported yields three times higher than previous harvests using traditional methods.

The company describes the program as a "scalable solution to food insecurity" that promotes "lasting self-reliance for local communities" while demonstrating its commitment to sustainable development in the region.

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