Deputy Minister of Agriculture Benedicto Chambo has expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress of rehabilitation of Mlambe Irrigation Scheme in Mangochi District.
Speaking on Saturday during the launch of this year’s planting season at the scheme, he said was “not fully convinced” by the ongoing efforts.
Said Chambo: “We cannot continue to talk about food insecurity while we are underutilising the potential of Mlambe Irrigation Scheme.
“If we can cultivate 200 hectares [ha] now and another 200ha in July, that will be commendable, but we must push harder.”
He said the project’s first phase targets 200ha out of the scheme’s 800ha.
“If we reach 400ha this year, that alone can feed people in Mangochi for at least two months. That is a meaningful contribution during such difficult times,” said Chambo.
In his remarks, Mlambe Irrigation Scheme board member Brighton Malasa acknowledged the ministry’s push and said it motivated local farmers to act quickly.
“We were supposed to begin planting later, but with the ministry’s encouragement, we started earlier. Our members are determined and I can assure you that we will reach the 200ha mark as planned,” he said.
Malasa said farmers were optimistic that this year’s irrigation season may yield better results than previous years.
On his part, Senior Chief Mponda also urged farmers to utilise the scheme to enhance food production.
“We are pleased with this irrigation scheme because what will be produced here will give us food. I encourage my subjects to take advantage of the scheme to grow maize,” he said.
