Distribution problems plague Malawi fertilizer subsidy scheme

The Budget and Finance Committee of Malawi's Parliament has said the fertiliser subsidy programme is likely to lose support, with some parliamentarians discouraged by the lack of transparency in the distribution of coupons.

But government has said there is need for all sections of the society to find solutions to problems rocking implementation of the programme.

MP Lilian Patel expressed concern over the political sensitivity of the programme, wondering why officials from the Ministry of Agriculture are not acting on fake coupons and involvement of Cabinet ministers in the distribution of coupons.

MP Stanley Chimphonda said some villages did not receive any coupons, yet the subsidy programme uses tax-payers’ money. He said the system is only enriching people in offices and that he would not defend its vote in Parliament.

Principal Secretary in the Agriculture Ministry Patrick Kabambe said: "The selling of coupons has indeed affected us, but it is because of the nature of the programme."

Kabambe disclosed that the ministry will next month hold a workshop where all sections of the society will participate in reviewing the programme. He said participants will discuss the issue of an independent body to administer the coupon system.

Malawi Nation