Greenbelt Authority has announced plans to start works at Chikombe Mega Farm in Traditional Authority (T/A) Makanjira in Salima District to improve food production amid dwindling supplies this growing season.
The authority’s director of irrigation operations Chisomo Kumbuyo said this on Friday at Chikombe when briefing traditional leaders on the authority’s plans for the next rainy season.
He said currently the farm’s irrigation system is not yet in place and the authority decided to start producing maize during the rainy season.
“While we are working on the irrigation systems, which may not be put in place in a short time considering costs, we have decided to start using this land in producing maize and other food crops to support government in addressing hunger,” said Kumbuyo.
He further said the authority’s strategic plan for 2022-27 requires it to acquire at least 15 000 hectares (ha) to reach its production potential to feed the nation.
In his remarks, Senior Chief Makanjira commended the authority for the decision.
“We will ensure that community members own this project and support the authority, with the understanding that the project’s success would benefit every Malawian through food security and forex generation,” he said.
The senior chief encouraged farmers to work hard to ensure they meet the authority’s objectives.
Chikombe Mega Farm is the authority’s second mega farm in the district besides Chikwawa Mega Farm in T/A Khombedza where it grows maize.
Ministry of Lands allocated the 287ha Chikombe Mega Farm, which previously belonged to Press Trust, to Greenbelt Authority.
The authority also supports Mlambe Mega Farm in Mangochi and Nthola-Ilola in Karonga
