Dowa Farmers Reap Benefits of Drip Irrigation with Multiple Harvests
Currently, they have reached out to approximately 4,755 farmers in the areas of Traditional Authority Dzoole, Kayembe, and Mkukula in Dowa district.
One of the Dowa farmers showing tomatoes they are producing (pic by Moses Nyirenda)
DOWA, MALAWI - Farmers in Mndolera Extension Planning Area (EPA) of Dowa district are celebrating the success of their multiple harvests made possible by drip irrigation, writes Moses Nyirenda.
These farmers are beneficiaries of the TRANSFORM Programme, which is being implemented in Dowa by Assemblies of God Care (AG Care) with support from Norwegian Church Aid and Danchurchaid (NCA/DCA).
During a media tour organised by NCA/DCA to appreciate the impact of the TRANSFORM Programme on farmers in various districts across the country, Cosmas Banda, one of the farmers, expressed his gratitude for the increased harvests.
"We are harvesting three times a year, which means we are benefiting a lot from our farming," Banda said.
He added, "Through this farming, I am able to make money that assists me in supporting my family."
Banda, who specialises in tomato farming, revealed that the profits from his tomato sales enabled him to purchase livestock such as chickens, goats, and a female cow.
He further stated that the increased income from multiple harvests allows him to buy basic necessities like soap, and food, and pay school fees for some of his family members.
Regnat Kalaula, another farmer from the Mndolera EPA practising drip irrigation under the Kachere Incubator, also shared her success story.
She explained that their farming club has achieved bumper harvests with tomato and cucumber farming, thanks to the efficient use of water and a small piece of land.
Takondwa Phanga, AG Care Project Manager working directly with the farmers in Dowa district, emphasised their commitment to improving farmers' productivity.
He stated, "Our mission is to ensure that farmers make a larger income and have improved food and nutrition."
Phanga explained that through the TRANSFORM Programme, they provide farmers in Dowa with farming inputs such as drip irrigation kits, fertilisers, and seeds.
Currently, they have reached out to approximately 4,755 farmers in the areas of Traditional Authority Dzoole, Kayembe, and Mkukula in Dowa district.
The success of the TRANSFORM Programme in Dowa district is a testament to the positive impact of innovative farming techniques and support from organizations like AG Care, NCA/DCA, and Norwegian Church Aid.
With increased harvests and improved income, farmers are transforming their livelihoods and contributing to the development of their communities.