Tayode branded honey
By Chris Phiri and Mark Ndipita
In the heart of Malawi, significant progress is taking place, one that is proving that with the right support, youth-led initiatives can evolve into powerful engines of economic growth. The story of True Action in Youth Development (TAYODE) Cooperative is not just about honey and money; it is about vision, resilience, and the power of strategic investment.
What began as a small youth club has today become a fast-growing agribusiness enterprise, demonstrating how the Agricultural Commercialisation (AGCOM 2) Project is unlocking the potential of young people to participate meaningfully in Malawi’s agricultural economy.
Founded in 2012, TAYODE started as a community-based youth group driven by a shared desire to improve livelihoods while promoting environmental conservation through beekeeping.
For years, the group operated on a small scale, managing just 20 beehives and producing about 600 kilograms of honey annually.
Despite limited resources, their determination never wavered. Clement Kabwila is the chairperson for TAYODE. He said, “We started with very little, but we had a strong vision to create opportunities for ourselves and our community through beekeeping.”
By 2021, it was clear that the group had outgrown its humble beginnings and needed investment to unlock its full potential.
That opportunity came in 2022, when TAYODE received a MWK 42 million matching grant under AGCOM. The support marked a turning point by shifting the cooperative from subsistence production to a structured, market oriented enterprise.
“The AGCOM support was a game changer. It allowed us to think bigger, produce more, and operate like a real business,” said Kabwila.
With the investment, the cooperative rapidly scaled up operations. It procured beehives which increased from 20 to 270. Honey production surged from 600 kilograms to over 8,100 kilograms.
A processing facility was renovated and equipped with modern machinery and members were provided with protective gear, which assisted in improving efficiency and safety.
In 2023, TAYODE formalized its operations by registering as a cooperative society, strengthening governance and positioning itself for long-term growth.
Beyond increasing production, TAYODE embraced value addition which is one of the core pillars of AGCOM 2. The cooperative launched its branded product, “Thanzi Natural Honey,” which is now making its mark in competitive retail markets.
Today, the honey product is stocked in supermarkets in Lilongwe, with demand continuing to grow.
“We are no longer just producers. We are now entrepreneurs. Our honey is branded, packaged, and trusted by customers,” explained Mabvuto Moses who is the Treasurer for TAYODE.
According to Moses, this shift from raw commodity sales to branded retail has significantly improved profitability and market visibility.
While the numbers tell a compelling story, the real impact of TAYODE’s success is reflected in the lives it is transforming.
Membership has grown from 42 to 150, creating opportunities for more young people to participate in agribusiness. Increased incomes are enabling members to meet essential needs and invest in their futures.
Yvone Patisoni is the Secretary for TAYODE. She says, “Today, I can pay school fees for my children, invest in farming, and support my family with confidence.”
Patisoni says that the benefits extend beyond individual households because young women are starting their own micro-enterprises and strengthening financial independence. Members are improving their housing and living conditions and jobs have been created in honey processing, packaging, and marketing
“The AGCOM project has not only increased our production and income, it has restored dignity, hope, and economic independence among young people,” explained Patisoni.
TAYODE’s journey reflects the broader vision of AGCOM 2 which is to transform smallholder farmers and rural groups into commercially viable enterprises that contribute to national development.
By investing in productive alliances, value addition, and market access, AGCOM 2 is enabling youth to move beyond subsistence and become active players in Malawi’s economy.
With a strong foundation in place, TAYODE is setting its sights on the future. Plans are underway to further expand production, diversify into other hive-based products, and explore new markets.
“We want to grow beyond Malawi and compete at regional level. This is just the beginning,” says Kabwila.
As the cooperative continues to grow, it stands as a shining example of what is possible when young people are empowered with the right tools, financing, and support.
TAYODE is not just producing honey, it is producing a new generation of entrepreneurs, a stronger rural economy, and a sweeter future for Malawi.
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