Farmers Union of Malawi (FUM) is an umbrella body of farmers organizations in Malawi established in 2003, the overall objective of FUM is to ensure that farmers effectively and meaningfully participate in the design, formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of policies, strategies, programs and plans aimed at improving their livelihoods in Malawi.
Historically farmers in Malawi have been forming clubs, associations and cooperatives since the early 1940s. Some of these have been able to stand the test of time, while others fell of on the way side. Even though these organizations were meant to empower farmers to participate in the agricultural development of the country, most of them were deprived of the means to leverage the direction of agricultural development activities as such decisions were made by others on their behalf. This is in contrast with Malawi's neighboring countries like Zambia, Tanzania and Zimbabwe where farmers are well organized and they have the capacity to influence government decisions.
-To promote the development of strong farmers' representation in Malawi.
-To support strengthening of member organizations capacity to deliver adequate service to their members,
-To advance and protect the common interest of affiliated farmers organizations locally, regionally and internationally
VALUES
-Voluntary membership.
-Participation of members and stakeholders
-Upholding democratic culture
-Transparency and accountability.
-Excellence
-Coordination and networking.
-Promotion of gender equity with emphasis on women empowerment.
-Promotion of farmers' rights & socio-economic justice.
Strategic Issues
-To strengthen the capacity of FUM and its members
-Improved governance of FO
-To enhance the legitimacy and relevance of FUM to represent farmers in Malawi
-To promote strategic linkages between FUM and key institutions as well as between members and partners
-To participate in the formulation of national and regional policies and programmes
-To promote sustainable development in agriculture
-To improve market access and promote trade opportunities at all levels
-To enhance access to and promote the use of agricultural information
Listing Details
Classification Criteria
Cooperative or Membership Association
Primary Country Where Active:
Malawi
Location (Town, City, District or Region)
Lilongwe
Postal Address (Main Contact)
PO Box 30457, Lilongwe, Malawi
Contact Number
tel +265 (0) 1 750 222 or +265 (0) 1 750 229 Fax: +265 (0) 1 750 228