As part of the University of Malawi’s commitment to driving innovation, impact, and community transformation, the Centre for Resilient Agri-Food Systems -CARP-E programme continues to support enterprises that are turning research-based ideas into practical solutions for local development.

On 10 th June 2026, the CRAFS-CARP-E team visited Rita Kumwenda of Parah Enterprise, based in Matawale, Zomba, a recipient of a US$5,500 CARP-E grant aimed at strengthening mushroom value addition and increasing production capacity.

Parah Enterprise is addressing key challenges in the mushroom sector, particularly the limited availability of mushroom spawn and post-harvest losses. Through the grant, the enterprise is enhancing its ability to process and preserve mushrooms by producing value-added products such as mushroom crisps and dehydrated mushrooms which helps in extending shelf life and reducing wastage. According to Kumwenda, the equipment has already begun transforming operations by making work easier and more efficient.

In addition, Parah Enterprise has trained mushroom growers, contributing to knowledge transfer and strengthening local capacity within the mushroom value chain. The initiative is also contributing to improved nutrition and health by increasing access to healthy, organic mushroom products, particularly for consumers seeking nutritious dietary alternatives.

The CRAFS-CARP-E grant has enabled Parah Enterprise to acquire key equipment required for establishing a mushroom spawn production laboratory, including a biosafety cabinet for tissue culturing, an autoclave for sterilising equipment, and a fodder cutter for substrate preparation. While the laboratory is not yet fully equipped, these investments represent significant progress towards developing local spawn production capacity, which will help address one of the major constraints facing mushroom growers in Zomba.

Through such interventions, CRAFS-CARP-E demonstrates the University of Malawi’s broader agenda of translating innovation into impact, where academic and development partnerships empower local enterprises, strengthen value chains, and foster sustainable community transformation.

By supporting innovation, value addition, and entrepreneurship, the programme continues to create pathways for inclusive economic growth while addressing food security and nutrition challenges in Malawi.