Malawi government to seek funding to copy RIU pig markets
1 February 2011

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When the RIU-funded pig market in Mulanje was launched, the Director of Animal Health and Livestock Development from the Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, Mr Wilfred G Lipita, was the guest of honour.

In his speech he applauded RIU for introducing this marketing initiative for pigs. He further said RIU Malawi has set the country a good example in pig marketing and that the government will strive to source funding to build similar pig markets in other parts of the country. Mr Lipita also stressed that the markets initiative will contribute to quality production of pigs through improved husbandry to meet the demands of the processors and buyers. This in turn will improve the economic livelihoods of the farmers.

In addition to the speech, the launch was an opportunity to view the market structures, see a pig sale and also enjoy traditional dances. The launch was attended by, amongst others, the District Commissioner of Mulanje District, the local member of parliament, the programme manager of Blantyre Agriculture Development Programme, NGO representatives and farmers.

Nobel Moyo, country coordinator of RIU Malawi, said:

"The piggery market launch in Mulanje was very successful and colourful and the event was spiced up with traditional dancing.

The dignitaries who spoke were full of praise for RIU: for our leadership and brokerage to get the markets up and running.

The event raised a great deal of interest and it was widely covered by print and electronic media in the country. The launch was broadcast four times within the week on Malawi TV, highlighting the speeches by the director and me".