Shire Valley project on track for 2024 completion
The full realization of the SVTP's vision to develop the long-underutilized Shire Valley depends on all planned infrastructure components remaining on track to be delivered by agreed deadlines.
NSANJE, Malawi- Construction of the main canals for the multi-billion kwacha Shire Valley Transformation Programme (SVTP) is progressing as planned and expected to be finished by the target date of October 2024, according to a project spokesperson, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
In an interview with AfricaBrief today, SVTP Public Relations Manager Alice Kaunda said work on Main Canal One has already been completed along 52 kilometers from the intake at Kapichira Dam.
She noted Main Canal Two is now in advanced stages of development and aims to cover 118 kilometers stretching to its terminus in Traditional Authority Mbenje, Nsanje District, within the scheduled timeframe.
"We are satisfied with the steady progress being made on this vital infrastructure portion of the project," Kaunda said.
Once the canal network is fully constructed, it will facilitate irrigation of 43,370 hectares of land across the Lower Shire Valley region through abstraction of water from the Shire River.
Kaunda further explained farmers residing along the planned canal routes have received instruction on proper land management practices to utilize once the irrigation scheme becomes operational.
Compensation has also been disbursed to local communities whose plots of land were acquired during the canal development process. This allowed contractors unfettered access to continue construction work.
The PR manager commended the Government of Malawi for permitting the SVTP to procure cement and fuel directly from Portland Cement and the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority respectively.
"This is helping to ensure efficient operations as we work towards transforming the agricultural potential and livelihoods and food security in the Shire Valley," Kaunda said.
Financed through the World Bank, African Development Bank, OPEC Fund, and Global Environment Facility, among other partners, the multi-billion kwacha SVTP aims to commence irrigation activities in 2025 once the canals are completed. This is expected to boost production in the country's southern region.
The full realization of the SVTP's vision to develop the long-underutilized Shire Valley depends on all planned infrastructure components remaining on track to be delivered by agreed deadlines.