After successful meetings with youths in Ntcheu, Mangochi and Zomba, NEEF geared up again, engaging youths in Balaka and raising awareness about its loan products that will empower young entrepreneurs and farmers. The meeting was held on 11th June 2025 at Uptown Lodge.
In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Humphrey Mdyetseni, emphasized the importance of embracing entrepreneurship in farming and businesses coupled with hard-work as key tools for personal and national economic growth. “Reject poverty as your destiny. Embrace hard work, seize the opportunity, and use the loans provided by NEEF to venture into farming and build a better future,” said Mdyetseni.
The CEO further challenged the youth to shift their mindset from simply being job seekers to becoming job creators that contribute to national food security through ventures in micro-irrigation farming. He advised the youth to use modern farming practices in irrigation, taking advantage of the abundant water resources such as the Shire River.
Harzlat Pilloni, Chairperson for Balaka Youth, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with NEEF’s leadership. He highlighted that the meeting has transformed and inspired the youth towards a new approach in business and agriculture in the region.
Currently, the NEEFs Balaka branch has disbursed loans totaling to MK3,148,322,000 to 5,218 clients, with 2,017 being the youth.
Balaka district remains full of potential for micro-irrigation farming, promising improved livelihoods and sustained youth empowerment through agriculture.