1. Programme Background
Malawi Value Chains (MVC), implemented by Adam Smith International (ASI), is one of three components of the Malawi Trade and Investment Programme (MTIP), a five-year FCDO-funded initiative which aims to break Malawi’s cycle of low growth through driving exports. The overall objective for MVC is to implement the value chain component of MTIP with the goal to increase the productivity, quality, production and export performance of the macadamia and mango value chains, as well as support increased mining investment and ultimately exports. Other complementary MTIP components are focused on increasing access to patient capital and cutting the time and costs of trade and logistics (the latter implemented by TradeMark Africa (TMA]).
ASI, on behalf of FCDO, is piloting the Matching Grant Facility (MGF) with a focus on the macadamia and mango value chains. Launched in early 2025, the MGF began with a call for concept notes, followed by a full proposal stage and due diligence for shortlisted applicants. The facility targets:
- Macadamia and mango mid-sized farms (MSF): Those with 3 to 40 hectares and existing or planned export partnerships via off takers.
- Smallholder farmer (SHF) cooperative organisations: Those involved in macadamia and mango production, with existing or planned export partnerships via off takers.
Illustrative MGF interventions include:
- Investments in irrigation infrastructure (e.g., boreholes, drip/sprinkler systems, installation) and post-harvest handling equipment to boost productivity and exports in mango and macadamia farms.
- Investments in macadamia processing equipment (e.g., improved building design, drying,dehusking, grading) to improve quality and expand exports.
- Construction of processing and storage sheds.
- Advisory services, such as support for farm business plans, business models, financial readiness, financial projections, and agro-economic/technical advice.
2. Scope
This Request for Proposals (RfP) seeks to engage qualified technical experts, firms, or institutions with demonstrated experience in the installation and commissioning of macadamia post-harvest processing equipment.
The selected service provider will be responsible for the supply support, installation, testing, and commissioning of key post-harvest infrastructure to ensure optimal functionality, efficiency, and adherence to industry standards. The assignment will specifically cover the installation of the following equipment which have been purchased and will be delivered to the farms:
| Equiptment | Units |
| Dehusking units | 7 |
| Industrial ventilation fans | 4 |
| Nut grading equipment | 1 |
| Dryer | 1 (50kw) |
| Cold room | 1 |
Below are the names and geographical locations of the farms:
| Farm name | Location | Equiptment | Specifications |
| Phinner Macs Limited | Mzimba Enukweni |
|
Dehusking unit: Model-WM-XGPQ1000, Voltage 380V/50HZ, Power 3Kw Machine gross weight 320kg, net weight 280kg, Machine Dimension 2350*630*1130mm Fan: |
| Chipunga | Nkhatabay |
|
Dehusking unit: Model-WM-XGPQ1000, Voltage 380V/50HZ, Power 3Kw Machine gross weight 320kg, net weight 280kg, Machine Dimension 2350*630*1130mm Fan:
Nut Grader: |
| Chimvu Cooperative | Thyolo |
|
Dehusking unit: Model-WM-XGPQ1000, Voltage 380V/50HZ, Power 3Kw Machine gross weight 320kg, net weight 280kg, Machine Dimension 2350*630*1130mm Fan: |
| Himacul Cooperative | Ntchisi |
|
Dehusking unit: Model-WM-XGPQ1000, Voltage 380V/50HZ, Power 3Kw Machine gross weight 320kg, net weight 280kg, Machine Dimension 2350*630*1130mm Fan: |
| Cale Farms | Lilongwe |
|
Cold room: Heat pump drying machine Model: JDZN-XC-C-20 Size: 8500×3200×2700mm(H) Heat pump unit: 20P Material: 75mm PU insulation material covered with Stainless steel 304 on both sides Voltage : 380V, 50Hz, 3ph 1set 20,790.00 20,790.00 2 Trolley=trays1300✕920✕1850mm Material: SUS304； Layer: 14 12suites 320.00 3,840.00 3 Silicone pad Size:1270✕890mm; Material:Silicone Mesh hole: 1*1mm Dryer: |
3. Assignment Objectives
The specific objectives are to:
- Installation and proper configuration of all equipment in accordance with manufacturer specifications
- Integration of systems to ensure smooth operational flow
- Testing and commissioning of equipment to verify performance and safety compliance
- Provision of basic operational training to designated personnel
- Troubleshooting and addressing any technical issues arising after installation (As per agreed timeline)
- Documentation of installation processes and submission of completion reports
- The service provider will be required to provide aftercare support for a period of 30 days following installation and commissioning. During this period, the provider shall address and rectify any faults, defects, or installation-related issues identified at no additional cost to the client, within a reasonable timeframe agreed by both parties.
4. Timeline and Deliverables
Applicants are required to specify a detailed breakdown of the days anticipated from the date of contract signing.
5. Qualifications
Interested individual consultants or institutions must meet the following minimum qualifications:
- At least 5 years of experience in macadamia or similar nut/agriculture value-chain post-harvest processing equipment installation.
- Demonstrated experience in deploying and strengthening post-harvest operations & systems, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and quality assurance frameworks in agricultural processing facilities.
- Valid insurance coverage for all field operations
- Quality management system certification
- Environmental management certification preferred
6. Ready to Apply?
The deadline for applications is 5th June 2026 by 1700 Hours. Clarifications and final submissions should be made to the following email: MalawiMGF@adamsmithinternational.com
Interested parties should submit a comprehensive proposal inclusive of:
- Detailed timeline for assignment completion
- Financial proposal with detailed breakdown of expenses
7. Payment Terms & Schedule
Payment will be made in accordance with the successful completion of assigned task or as agreed by both parties.