Using comparable household data collected in a Malawian village in 2003/04
and 2008/09, this paper assesses the effects of the Agricultural Input Subsidy Program on
household food security and examines change and continuity in household livelihood situations.
The subsidy program contributed to the increased use of fertilizer and improved maize
yields and food security in both rich and poor households. These improvements, however, did
not lead to changes in income portfolios or asset bases among the poor, and the disparities
between rich and poor households also remained unchanged.
Key Words: Malawi; Food security; Livelihood; Subsidy; Maize.