Extreme weather events in Malawi impact maize production, leading households to adopt climate-smart agriculture practices. Drought episodes increase the adoption of organic manure and soil/water conservation. Households are 63% technically efficient in maize production, with potential to increase by 37%. Using both organic and inorganic fertilizers boosts maize production efficiency by 18%, especially for drought-affected households. Gender-targeted extension services can enhance the benefits of climate-smart agriculture practices for female farmers. Adopting a combination of fertilizers can improve maize production efficiency under worsening drought conditions.