When I left Malawi in July of 2024 to pursue my MBA at the Broad College of Business, I told my team that I was going to explore agriculture at America’s first agricultural college—Michigan State University.
For me, Broad wasn’t just a casual decision; it was a deliberate step toward understanding how we can innovate in farming, particularly in Africa. Among the many reasons I chose MSU, one of the most visually striking and intellectually compelling was its greenhouses—a symbol of advanced agricultural research and innovation.
A New Chapter in Agriculture
By Nthanda Manduwi – Economist, Policy Analyst, and Development Advocate
Coming from Malawi, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, I have always understood its importance. However, my engagement with agriculture so far has largely been from an economic and policy perspective—analyzing value chains, supply chains, and market access rather than hands-on farming techniques. That perspective began to shift as I explored the potential of Kwathu Farms, an initiative my team at the Kwathu Kollective and I are developing to contribute to Malawi’s agricultural landscape.
My goal was to explore modern farming techniques that could be applied in Malawi and across Africa. Greenhouse farming and mega farming were two key methods I was particularly drawn to. MSU, being the first land-grant university in the U.S., was the ideal place to start.
Why Michigan State University?
Michigan State University has long been recognized as a global leader in agricultural research, and its Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) program is among the best in the world. MSU researchers are working on innovative techniques to improve crop yields, optimize water usage, and develop sustainable farming models. These are all crucial elements in addressing food security, especially in countries like Malawi, where climate change and land constraints pose significant challenges to traditional farming methods.
But beyond the academic credentials, it was the greenhouses themselves that captured my imagination. Every morning as I Viji and I drive past them, I am struck by their sheer scale and the vibrant glow of their lights against the early morning or late evening sky. These greenhouses are more than just visually stunning; they represent a living laboratory where science meets agriculture.
The Role of Greenhouses in Modern Farming
Greenhouse farming presents an exciting opportunity for both smallholder farmers and large-scale agribusinesses. In Malawi, where weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, greenhouse technology could offer a controlled and resilient alternative to open-field farming. Some of the key benefits include:
- Controlled Climate Conditions – Greenhouses protect crops from extreme weather conditions, ensuring stable growth.
- Efficient Water Use – Through systems like hydroponics and drip irrigation, water usage is minimized, making farming more sustainable.
- Extended Growing Seasons – Crops that would traditionally be seasonal can be grown year-round, increasing food production.
- Higher Yields – With optimized conditions, plants grow faster and healthier, leading to increased agricultural output.
At MSU, research focuses on refining these systems, making them more cost-effective and scalable, which is crucial for regions with limited resources.
Bridging the Gap: Research and Practice
My exploration of MSU’s agricultural innovations is not just about academic curiosity—it’s about practical application. How can we adapt these techniques to the realities of Malawi and Africa at large? What lessons can be translated from these advanced research facilities into affordable and sustainable models for local farmers?
These are the questions I aim to answer as I continue my journey with Kwathu Farms. My vision is to not just import ideas but to innovate locally—leveraging technology and strategic partnerships to develop solutions that fit within our economic and environmental context.
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This is just the beginning of my agricultural exploration at MSU. As I dive deeper into research, network with experts, and visit more agricultural sites, I hope to refine my understanding of what’s possible. I am particularly interested in:
- Hydroponic and Aeroponic Systems – As soil quality continues to degrade in some areas, soilless farming could be a viable alternative.
- Ag-Tech Integration – Using digital tools to monitor farm productivity and optimize decision-making.
- Sustainable Farming Models – Ensuring that innovations are environmentally friendly, financially viable, and scalable for African markets.
For now, I remain inspired by the greenhouses I pass by every morning. They are a constant reminder of why I am here—to learn, innovate, and contribute to the transformation of agriculture back home.
Still exploring,
Ntha
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