Malawi Farmers Seek Irrigation Scheme Upgrade to 'Mega-Farm'
The Nkhate farming communities view an upgraded irrigation scheme as a pathway to revitalizing their agricultural activities and boosting their living standards.
CHIKWAWA, Malawi — Farming communities at the Nkhate Irrigation Scheme in Chikwawa district have appealed to the government to transform the facility into a mega-farm to boost agricultural productivity and improve their living standards, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
The request was made on Friday when Agriculture Minister Sam Kawale toured the scheme for familiarization.
Bernard Byone, the scheme's treasurer, said Nkhate Irrigation was established in 1978 under the late Gwanda Chakuamba's influence, spanning 243 hectares where crops like rice, sweet potatoes, beans and maize are grown through rainfed and irrigation farming year-round.
"The scheme has 1,507 members, of which 811 are men, 596 are females, 88 boys, 55 girls, and 12 are persons with disabilities - five females and seven males," Byone said.
Gerald Sitima, a seed multiplier, said farmers have an opportunity to increase seed production and earn huge profits from rice sales, harvesting 22,240 bags (1,112 tons) worth nearly 1.1 billion Kwacha annually.
Minister Kawale commended the relationship between the contractors, locals, faith leaders and extension workers, acknowledging the government's commitment to addressing challenges faced by farmers severely affected by Cyclones Ana and Freddy.
He urged the locals to get organized as a cooperative rather than individuals for recognition, noting that establishing a mega-farm requires substantial funds and land.
The Nkhate farming communities view an upgraded irrigation scheme as a pathway to revitalizing their agricultural activities and boosting their living standards.