African livestock farmers face a feed deficit due to drought

In the Mulanje district, feed collectors head to the Likhubula River much earlier than in previous years. While bicycle trips used to begin after October, this season grass harvesting has been underway for several months. Due to the shortage of vegetation, collectors have to venture further and further away from farms.

Local residents note changes in the ecosystem: the Likhubula River has grown shallow, and the vegetation along the banks is disappearing, partly because the waterfront areas are being used for vegetable sowing. The situation was exacerbated in the 2023/24 rainy season, when Malawi experienced high temperatures and dry spells against the backdrop of El Niño's impact on the southern African region.

The shortage and high cost of feed, including a deficit of maize bran due to low yields, are negatively affecting the condition of livestock. Specifically, at McDonald Handalawo's farm, milk production has decreased, while the labor costs for feed collectors and the purchase of supplements have increased. The farmer notes that due to current conditions, it has become difficult for him to forecast the further maintenance of his herd.

Other livestock owners in the region face similar difficulties. For example, farmer Alefa Saulo's cows are losing weight, and livestock breeder Batson Kweluza points to the reduction of forest cover and the shallowing of the river in the vicinity.