Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) students Martin Chirwa and Gracian Bistance have secured the K2.5 million first prize in the Digital Innovation Challenge, held as part of International Youth Day celebrations. The event, organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, took place at Mgodi Primary School in Machinga.
The students’ innovative project, Kalima M’madzi, is an automated, phone-controlled hydroponic system designed to enhance agricultural efficiency. Leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and artificial intelligence (AI), the smart system optimizes climate control, water usage, and labor costs.
Chirwa explained that Kalima M’madzi promotes soil-less crop production and real-time environmental monitoring through its AI module, ensuring optimal growth conditions. The prize money will be utilized to establish a larger greenhouse, serving as a learning center for farmers, students, and youth.
LUANAR’s Director of Research and Outreach, Dr. Sam Katengeza, commended the students’ achievement, highlighting the university’s commitment to addressing agricultural challenges through innovation. The project was initially identified during LUANAR’s Innovation and Talents Day and has now gained national recognition.
In addition to the cash prize, the students will receive mentorship from industry experts and participate in skills development workshops, further enhancing their innovative endeavors.
This achievement showcases the potential of Malawi’s youth in driving sustainable development through digital innovation, aligning with the International Youth Day theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”
