In a world where age is but a number and not a limitation to what one can achieve, Harrison Mtema from Zakaliya Village in Traditional Authority Kandagwala in Dedza district, stands as a powerful example of what determination and hard work can accomplish. At 81 years, Mr. Harrison father to six and grandfather to twelve has proven that age does not diminish one’s ability to succeed, especially when it comes to sustaining a household and ensuring food security year after year.

This past season, Mr. Harrison achieved an impressive harvest of 32 bags of maize, each weighing 50 kilograms, from just one acre of land. On top of that, he harvested 60 baskets of groundnuts. Demonstrating both foresight and resourcefulness, he sold 30 baskets of groundnuts and three bags of maize to invest in his future. With the proceeds, he purchased three bags of fertilizer, a goat, and six pigeons, further diversifying his sources of income and improving his household’s well-being.

In an interview, Mr. Harrison shared that since joining the SAFI program in 2023, he has noticed a significant improvement in his harvests. He credits the program’s training in modern agricultural techniques, such as planting one seed per station, using Bokashi manure, and applying Mbeya fertilizer, for this remarkable increase in productivity.

Looking forward, Mr. Harrison has already set his sights on the next phase of his farming journey. He plans to buy pigs for additional income in the upcoming season and has begun preparing for this by producing more Mbeya fertilizer. His commitment to continuous growth and sustainability is a clear indication of his forward-thinking approach to farming.

Mr. Harrison’s story is a source of inspiration not only to his community but to the entire nation. If an 81-year-old can achieve so much, there is no limit to what the youth can accomplish. His dedication, hard work, and proactive approach to modern farming serve as a reminder that success is within reach at any stage of life, and that the pursuit of growth and improvement never has an expiration date.