Programme hands over livestock project

Nearly 2 000 households in Karonga are reaping the benefits of owning farm animals, thanks to a pass-on initiative by Small Scale Livestock and Livelihood Programme (SSLP).
The programme has described the five-year scheme as successful.

Speaking when he handed over the programme to government, SSLP project coordinator Frank Matchado said 1943 households in traditional authorities (T/As) Mwilang’ombe, Wasambo, Kyungu and Mwakaboko have been empowered economically with livestock.

According to Matchado, 1641 families received goats and pigs and 302 farmers received local chickens.
“SSLP is leaving Karonga with smiling faces because we have achieved our vision of contributing to increased livestock production. We set out to reach out to 1500 families, but have surpassed the target. This has helped communities to improve their standard of living,” he said.

SSLP implemented the livestock pass-on programme with funding from the Department for International Development (DFiD), Norwegian Embassy, Irish Aid and UK Aid.
One of the beneficiaries, Pachalo Mwaungulu, asked the district agricultural development office to support them access sustainable markets.

He said livestock farmers are being impoverished by lower prices offered by vendors on market.