Starter Pack (SP2) Evaluation Programme 1999-2000 (Module 4)

Module 4 focuses on the composition of the Starter Packs. It aims to elicit evidence from farmers on the 'optimal' composition of the packs and to evaluate the contribution of the Starter Pack scheme to sustainable agriculture in Malawi. In particular, Module 4 attempts to evaluate: -> whether the proportion of hybrid maize, composite maize, other cereals and legumes in the packs affects their acceptability to farmers in the short term; -> whether farmers' criteria on the composition of the starter packs alters in a medium/long-term perspective; -> whether the composition of the packs has had an impact on agricultural practices, local consumption, seed stock and replanting patterns (e.g. in terms of the varieties of maize and legumes consumed and kept for replanting); -> whether the starter pack programme has affected farmers' overall strategy, for instance the balance between maize and other crops planted; and -> the use and impact of chemical fertiliser on the farm and how SP fertiliser compares with the alternatives available to farmers to increase soil fertility.