Abstract
Agriculture remains the backbone of Malawi’s economy, yet smallholder farmers continue to face persistent challenges such as limited access to information, poor market linkage, and climate-related risks and best modern practices. This project explores how digital tools can bridge these gaps by developing a technology-based solution tailored to local farming communities.
My final-year Bachelor of Science in Computer Science project led to the creation of Chuma Muulimi which functions as both a mobile and web-based application. This project investigates the potential of digital technology to resolve agricultural sector issues in Malawi. This application supports farmers with up-to-date agricultural information while fostering knowledge exchange and sustainable farming practices as well as enhancing market accessibility through mobile and web platforms.
I conducted surveys and interviews with farmers, agricultural officers, and market vendors to guide the development process by understanding their real-world needs. The feedback from the farmers resulted in the creation of mobile and web application prototypes that included a knowledge hub, real-time weather updates, a discussion forum, and an online marketplace.
Before the app reached real-world deployment a limited number of test users already gave positive feedback. The application was expected to support farmers in making improved farming decisions and enable them to learn new techniques while simplifying the marketing and selling of their produce.
Chuma Muulimi demonstrates how merging mobile and web technologies can empower farmers while building stronger agricultural communities. This initiative proves that digital innovation and user-centered design methods generate effective solutions which will support upcoming development stages and real-world applications.