By Tiyese Monjeza:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has constructed a K358 million solar-powered Nanyanga Irrigation Scheme in the area of Traditional Authority Malemia in Zomba.
According to the project summary report, the scheme is expected to benefit 120 farmers, increase output and attain food security mark.
The 12 hectares scheme was constructed under the Transform of Agriculture through Building Resilience and Harnessing Green Opportunity project under UNDP supported by the Japanese Government.
Zomba District Council Irrigation Officer Edward Chinkhata said the initiative will empower farmers to produce surplus harvest for sale.
He made the remarks on Tuesday, during a media tour to appreciate interventions being implemented by UNDP in the district.
“We believe such irrigation schemes can help farmers to be producing crops throughout the year. We believe such interventions can motivate farmers to turn into commercial farmers thereby resulting in improved economic status of rural farmers,” Chinkhata said.
Zomba District Council Assistant Trade Officer, Mphatso Chokani said they will train the farmers in value addition to ensure they realise reasonable profits from the agribusiness venture.
“Once they start producing a large harvest, we will link them with reliable markets and agro dealers to ensure they get enough profits,” Chokani said.
Village Head Mkaju said the communities have formed a committee to ensure tightened security at the irrigation scheme.
“We used to irrigate our crops using water canes which was a tiresome work and now that we have this irrigation scheme, we will ensure there is security to ensure there is no theft of irrigation equipment,” Mkaju said.
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