In Dedza District, farmers are facing growing challenges from pests, diseases, and climate change affecting key crops such as maize, groundnuts, and cassava. Through the MaDiPHS project, local plant doctors, extension workers, and lead farmers are using smartphones and digital surveillance tools to detect crop threats early and send real-time data for rapid response.
In this interview, Chief Agriculture Officer Matilda Mtambo explains how the project is strengthening plant health systems, supporting farmers and agrodealers, and helping communities respond faster to emerging agricultural threats.