Amidst uncertain weather patterns, a new soybean variety that can withstand harsh weather conditions will be launched in December this year. The new seed, a product of Chitedze Research Station, has potential to give a farmer 3.5 tonnes per hectare, unlike the current varieties, which only yield about 800 kilograms per hectare.

Chitedze Research Station Legume Specialist, Florence Ngwira said the new seed called TGX1991 22F, has proven to be stable because it is doing well in all the agro-ecological zones we have tested it. “It gives the same yield irrespective of the agro-ecological zone it is planted.” she commended.

The variety will be launched after stakeholders in agriculture were advised to implement climate-smart agriculture. Malawi was urged to triple its investment in climate smart agriculture if it is to achieve a meaningful and sustainable economic growth, an initiative endorsed by the Irish Ambassador to Malawi, Gery Cunningham.