Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Feston Malekezo
Published on 2024-03-12 06:34:33
President Lazarus Chakwera expressed optimism about the potential for Karonga District to become a food basket for the Northern Region through the implementation of irrigation schemes. His comments were made during a visit to the Wovwe Rice Irrigation Scheme, which was undergoing rehabilitation by Fisd with funding from the International Fund for Agricultural Development under the Programme for Rural Irrigation Development (Pride).
Accompanied by Vice-President Saulos Chilima, President Chakwera encouraged farmers in the vicinity of the scheme to take advantage of the improved irrigation infrastructure for the benefit of their families and the country as a whole. He emphasized the importance of utilizing such schemes effectively to achieve national development goals outlined in the Malawi 2063 vision.
The Wovwe Rice Irrigation Scheme, covering an area of approximately 700 hectares, had suffered damage from floods, leading to a reduced production capacity of about 300 hectares. Munday Makoko, the Pride Project Coordinator, highlighted that the rehabilitated scheme would support around 2,000 farmers in the area, enabling them to cultivate rice three times a year. This increased productivity is expected to generate a minimum of K1 billion worth of rice, with a significant portion being sold in neighboring Tanzania.
The successful completion of the Wovwe scheme represents a milestone towards food security for the local population, with surplus rice production anticipated to be distributed nationwide. In addition to Wovwe, Pride had also undertaken rehabilitation efforts at three other irrigation schemes in Karonga, namely Hara, Chonanga, and Ukanga.
During the visit, President Chakwera also inspected the Nthola Ilola Ngosi Rice project, a development initiative that began in 2017 and is projected to be finalized by 2027. The project involves the cultivation of 1,000 hectares of land for rice production and the construction of a rice-processing factory to add value to the harvested crop. Wester Kossam, the Board Chairperson of the Greenbelt Authority overseeing the project, underscored the objectives of enhancing food security, improving nutrition, boosting household incomes, and increasing exports.
Earlier in the day, President Chakwera visited survivors of the floods who were seeking shelter at the Kambwe Evacuation Camp. During his interaction with the displaced individuals, he issued a stern warning against acts of greed and corruption in the distribution of relief supplies to ensure that assistance reaches those in genuine need.
In conclusion, President Chakwera’s visit to the Wovwe Rice Irrigation Scheme and other agricultural projects in Karonga demonstrated the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing food security, and empowering local farmers. The rehabilitated schemes are poised to contribute significantly to both local and national economic development, paving the way for increased agricultural production and improved livelihoods in the region.
Read the original article on The Times
