Grace Mwale from Malawi is the pride of her family and community, after finding huge success in her farming since joining the Chimwemwe Farmer Field School, supported by Self Help Africa.

And it was her willingness to try something different, that made all the difference.

At first Grace doubted the benefits of using organic manure, but says: “I’ve learnt that it is cost effective. I’m now spending half of what I used to.”

And much of her success can be put down to a somewhat unlikely source – organic manure.

Grace is among 19 farmers that have adopted Mbeya manure, and has become a role model for other farmers in her village.

Mbeya manure is low-cost, environmentally friendly and retains soil moisture.

In Malawi, soil fertility is one of the major challenges that contributes to low production among smallholder farmers.

Grace is part of the European Union-funded KULIMA BETTER project, of which Self Help Africa are a lead agency. KULIMA BETTER promotes Climate Smart Agriculture practices to help farmers cope with climate change related challenges.