Kaombe Ranche, Nsanje, Malawi

Kaombe Farm spans about 2,300 hectares, including 820 hectares of irrigated sugarcane cultivation, supported by 12 center-pivot irrigation systems supplied by a centrally powered pump station and an underground water distribution network. Approximately 700 hectares form a protected nature sanctuary and one of the last remaining riparian forest habitats in Malawi, while the remaining land supports cattle grazing operations.

The sugarcane component of the project required extensive irrigation planning, bulk water engineering, drainage infrastructure, land preparation, and operational management systems designed specifically for the highly variable environmental conditions of the Lower Shire floodplain.

Kaombe Farm also hosts the Kaombe Community Development Trust (KCDT), a 335-hectare irrigated sugarcane project integrated directly into the broader Kaombe Estate irrigation and operations system. Founded in 2009 as a partnership between Agricane Malawi Ltd and Illovo Sugar Malawi Ltd, the project reflects Agricane’s belief that commercial agriculture should involve long-term community participation and shared economic benefits. The sugarcane is supplied to Illovo’s Nchalo Sugar Factory under a long-term supply agreement, and the proceeds are used for community development projects. After repaying the initial development financing, the Trust has invested over US$500,000 in community initiatives, including schools, clinics, culverts, drainage systems, training, and other local infrastructure projects.