Cassava is Malawi’s second-most important staple crop after maize, valued for both household consumption and commercial use due to its drought-resistance. Despite a shift in policy toward crop diversification, cassava receives limited government attention. Smallholder farmers dominate production but struggle with low yields and limited market access. Agricultural innovations by GIZ-Malawi and IITA have shown low adoption rates. A partial value chain analysis in Nkhotakota District and Lilongwe rural explored smallholders’ asset endowments and value chain participation to address supply-demand mismatches. Methodologies included 31 expert interviews, 58 household interviews, four focus group discussions, and two validation workshops. Results showed regional differences: Nkhotakota households prioritize home consumption; Lilongwe rural households focus on markets. Gender roles influence production and decision-making, with female-headed households often disadvantaged. Smallholders express strong interest in improved cassava varieties and greater market participation, yet face an enabling environment lacking coordination, legal clarity, and adequate extension services. The seed system is poorly organized, undermining access to clean planting material. Innovations followed a top-down approach, ignoring farmer preferences, leading to low adoption and seed recycling. Despite demand for cassava products, supply remains insufficient. Two intervention areas are key: improving production systems and planting material, and strengthening value chain governance. Recommendations include enhancing extension services, supporting farmer organizations, and activating the Roots and Tuber Crops Development Trust. While cassava holds great potential for smallholders as part of a diversified strategy, commercialisation must not compromise food security.