Improving Maize Productivity in Malawi
Author Information
Author(s): Glenn Denning, Patrick Kabambe, Pedro Sanchez, Alia Malik, Rafael Flor, Rebbie Harawa, Phelire Nkhoma, Clement Banda, Chrispin Magombo, Michael Keating, Justine Wangila, Jeffrey Sachs
Primary Institution: Earth Institute at Columbia University
Hypothesis
Can input subsidies effectively improve smallholder maize productivity in Malawi?
Conclusion
The input subsidy program in Malawi significantly increased maize production and contributed to food security.
Supporting Evidence
- Maize production doubled in 2006 and almost tripled in 2007 due to the subsidy program.
- Malawi achieved a 53% surplus in maize production by 2007.
- Over 3.4 million coupons for fertilizer and seed were issued, with a 75% redemption rate.
Takeaway
The government gave farmers help to buy seeds and fertilizer, which made them grow a lot more corn and have enough food.
Methodology
The study analyzed the impact of a national input subsidy program on maize production in Malawi over two growing seasons.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from government involvement in the distribution of subsidies and the lack of targeting for the poorest households.
Limitations
The program did not explicitly target the poorest farmers, and there were concerns about the sustainability of the subsidy.
Participant Demographics
The study involved smallholder farmers in Malawi, with 78% of the national labor force employed in agriculture.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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