Nthola-Ilola Irrigation Scheme works at 40%

The Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Public Works has expressed dissatisfaction with the delay to finish constructing the intake at Nthola-Ilola Irrigation Scheme in Karonga District.

The committee’s chairperson Enock Phale said this on Saturday after a tour to appreciate the progress of the construction works.

He said his committee was not impressed with the slow progress of the works which stalled in February this year.

Phale said: “After a visit at the reservoir intake, we have noted that the place looks deserted. A clear indication that there is nothing on the ground despite the contractor receiving his payment which comes from Public Sector Investment Programme whose resources are drawn from the development budget part 2 which is public money.

“We, therefore, urge contractors to engage clients on any challenges to avoid unnecessary delays. At the same time, clients should also engage only contractors with capacity.”

In response, Siko Civils Contractors manager Wesley Msowoya said the construction works stalled due to late payment from Greenbelt Authority (GBA) and rains that made the area inaccessible.

“Initially, the project which started in April 2022 was supposed to end in November last year. However, delays by government to pay us and rain rendered this area impassable,” he said.

However, Greenbelt Authority director of irrigation operation Chisomo Kumbuyo expressed excitement with the committee’s visit.

He said: “We hope the committee will be able to help to lobby for timely funding from Treasury to avoid unnecessary delays that coincide with eventualities such as devaluations that in turn, affect prices of building materials and deadlines.”