Dowa farmers get K3 billion irrigation boost from NEEF

Some smallholder irrigation farmers in Dowa have received on loan irrigation and rain-fed farming items worth K3 billion from the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) to help them boost production and ensure year-round food supply.

The official handover took place on Thursday at Nsakambewa in a symbolic ceremony presided over by Minister of Agriculture Sam Kawale.

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The items include solar-powered pumps, maize seed and fertiliser.

In his address, Kawale urged beneficiaries to put the items to good use, saying government is empowering smallholder farmers for them to contribute to Malawi 2063 vision, especially of achieving food security for all.

“President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera’s vision is for every household to have enough food, and for capable farmers to access modern tools so they can produce more, earn more income, and ably support their families.

“This is why we are distributing the equipment now so that people can plant and harvest more than twice a year. But to achieve this, you need to put the items to good use. Most importantly, you should be able to consult and follow guidance from agricultural extension workers in your areas,” said Kawale.

The Minister also encouraged those who have not yet benefited to form groups and undergo training so they can qualify for future loans.

He appealed to current beneficiaries to repay their loans on time to allow others to benefit.

NEEF’s Mponela Zone Manager, Amos Phiri, expressed optimism that the equipment will transform livelihoods in the area if farmers follow advice.

“This year’s poor rainfall has left many without enough food. By supporting the government’s food security vision, we felt it necessary to launch this initiative so farmers can keep producing despite climate challenges,” Phiri said.

One of the recipients, Dickson Kaudzu from Chibanza Club, thanked NEEF and the government, saying the equipment would help his community tackle hunger.

“We have struggled with food shortages for a while now despite having various water bodies around. But with this development, we have been empowered to boost our irrigation farming activities. We also promise to make proper use of everything we have acquired,” he said.