Farming, Food and Empowerment: The Journey of Malawi’s 'Homes Industries'

In 2016, Victoria Mwafulirwa took her first steps into Malawi’s small-scale agrifood processing landscape. Her venture, Homes Industries, began almost by accident in the northern district of Karonga. After completing a lucrative catering contract with a local company, Mwafulirwa shifted her focus to producing groundnut flour, seizing a market opportunity that has since blossomed into a beacon of hope for thousands of smallholder farmers across Malawi’s Karonga, Chitipa, and Nkhata Bay districts. 

Although initially unplanned, Homes Industries swiftly gained momentum. Victoria recognized the crucial role that women play in managing households and supporting families, prompting her to forge partnerships with local female farmers. These collaborations are designed to economically empower farmers while promoting balanced nutrition within their communities. As a result, Victoria’s agrifood business has rapidly evolved into a significant economic force, delivering essential benefits to rural communities.