In My Own Words: Sibusisiwe Kamanga

For Sibusisiwe Kamanga, our Malawi Trees Program Manager, leadership is not measured by results alone, but by leaving behind a forest of capable, confident people who can carry the mission forward. That philosophy has guided her from an early age, when she first watched her father nurture trees with patience and care.

Today, she brings that same spirit to her work, supporting farmers in planting millions of trees across Malawi while also mentoring her team and other young professionals to grow into leaders themselves. For Sibusisiwe, true impact comes from ensuring that growth continues long after the seeds are planted.

In this piece, she reflects on her career journey, her approach to leadership and mentorship, and what inspires her most about working in agricultural development.

Please tell us about your career journey, what led you into agricultural development and forestry, and how that path led you to One Acre Fund?

I grew up in Zimbabwe, surrounded by nature. My dad filled our yard with fruit trees while my mom tended a vegetable garden and maize plot. That upbringing unknowingly shaped my love for agriculture. Being Malawian by descent, frequent travels between Zimbabwe and Malawi exposed me to diverse landscapes. Though I once dreamed of being a pilot, I ended up studying Forestry at Mzuzu University. At first, it wasn’t what I expected, as I had hoped engineering would make up more of the coursework. However, I quickly grew passionate as I connected what I learned to my childhood experiences.

Later, I received a scholarship to pursue Soil Science at the University of Nairobi, focusing my research on Striga, a weed affecting crops. Working with farmers in western Kenya deepened my desire to support smallholders. I returned to Malawi, where I worked in agroforestry and carbon programs. I then joined One Acre Fund in 2017, focusing on product innovations, and am now part of the Malawi tree program.

What drew you to One Acre Fund?

I learned about the organization through a former colleague who described it as supportive and people-centered; it was almost too good to be true. When I was invited to the final interview, I had to travel to Zomba, Malawi One Acre Fund HQ. I was a mother with two very small children. I explained that I would need to bring my nanny and kids with me, expecting that it might be an issue. Instead, the team reassured me that they would accommodate us all.

That experience showed me the organization valued the whole person, not just the professional. Feeling cared for, included, and combined with the mission of serving farmers, convinced me this was the right place.

Working closely with farmers is at the heart of what you do. What skills, experiences, or mindsets have been most valuable in helping you succeed in your role?

One of the biggest lessons I have learned is the difference between classroom knowledge and real-life experience. In class, you are told, ‘Do A, B, C, D and it will work.’ But in the field, I quickly realized farmers are the true experts of their land. Science can guide, but our recommendations must include their voices. Working in the trees program also taught me patience - unlike crops, trees take years to mature. But now, visiting farmers who grew trees in 2018 and 2019, I see tall, thriving trees. It reminds me that agroforestry isn’t instant; it takes patience to see the long-term fruits of our work.

As a woman leading impactful work in agriculture, what unique strengths or perspectives do you bring to your role, and how have they shaped your leadership style?

I believe it’s important that I’m not the only one who can speak confidently about the trees program. My team should be equally knowledgeable, so the work continues whether I’m present or not. True leadership means growing together, mentoring others, and taking their career development seriously. I ensure that team members acquire skills beyond their primary roles, enabling smooth transitions, covering gaps, and providing consistent service to farmers.

What’s a favorite team tradition you look forward to each season?

Our happiest time comes at the peak of the season, usually around October and November, when nurseries are in full bloom. Seeing neat, well-arranged rows of a variety of tree species feels like therapy and showcases the hard work of everyone, from field teams and nursery managers to finance and procurement. For the field team, we commemorate this time by sharing nursery photos in our WhatsApp group, running friendly competitions, and even awarding outstanding nursery managers.

When you are not supporting the production and distribution of millions of trees, where can we find you?

I’m an outdoors person, often hiking or walking in nature with my kids between Zomba’s serene mountains and Bunda’s farming community. 

I’m also passionate about coaching and mentorship; and guiding young women and students in forestry and agriculture through networks like African Women in Agricultural Research and community outreach. One of my mentees even joined One Acre Fund and has grown into a leadership role.

Finish this sentence: When I look at the farmers we serve, I feel…

……honored to be part of their journey. Farmers are hungry for knowledge, and I see it every time I attend a farmer training. They listen attentively, respect the process, and work incredibly hard. I also feel a strong sense of hope because their commitment and hard work give me confidence that these farmers have a bright future ahead.