Rampant Theft Plagues Sugar Company
Company Community Service Manager Wilfred Mtengula said this on Thursday during an interface meeting with the Shire Valley Media Club at Hope Lodge in Chikwawa.
CHIKWAWA, Malawi - Illovo Sugar Malawi has expressed concern over widespread theft of irrigation equipment and sugarcanes, saying it is negatively affecting operations, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
Company Community Service Manager Wilfred Mtengula said this on Thursday during an interface meeting with the Shire Valley Media Club at Hope Lodge in Chikwawa.
He said vandalism of the company's properties is occurring at all sites in Dwangwa, contributing to a decline in production.
“During burning of sugarcanes some people come closer to the areas for their personal interest are also the victims of fire burns,” he alleged.
On the theft of irrigation equipment, Mtengula disclosed the company is transitioning to drip irrigation.
The manager added the company's harvest has decreased due to the effects of Tropical Cyclone Freddy and theft of canes.
Mtengula promised the company will work closely with the media club to raise awareness so rural people refrain from vandalism and theft of company property.
In remarks, Shire Valley Media Club President MacMillan Mozeyo praised Illovo Sugar Malawi for partnering with the club.
"As the SVMC we are very thankful for the support you have given towards this interface meeting," he said.