Chitipa District has recorded a major breakthrough in food security following the government’s establishment of the Mafinga and Marko Irrigation Schemes in Senior Chiefs Mwenewenya and Mwabulambya respectively.

For the first time in the district’s history, farmers can cultivate crops year-round, reducing hunger and boosting economic stability of the boarder district.

In an interview, Senior Chief Mwabulambya commended the government’s efforts, describing the schemes as a game-changer for the district.

He said farmers who once struggled with food shortages can now harvest up to three times a year, leading to improved livelihoods, with many farmers now able to afford school fees and build better homes.

Chitipa Chitipa — Senior Chief Mwabulambya: Irrigation has transformed Chitipa, ensuring food security and economic stability for our people.

“The two irrigation schemes have ensured a constant supply of fresh maize, ending the reliance on unpredictable rainfall. Chitipa has always had great farmers, but unpredictable rainfall led to frequent hunger. With irrigation, we are not only feeding our families but also supplying food to others,” he said.

He urged the government to extend the initiative to other communities facing similar challenges.

In a separate interview, Alice Mbale, a beneficiary from the Mafinga Irrigation Scheme in the Chisenga section, said the scheme has transformed her life.

“Before, I struggled to provide for my children. Now, I can afford school fees, and I have even built a better house,” she said.

She also highlighted the additional benefits of the scheme, including informal education on modern farming techniques.

Elina Mfungwe, a farmer under the Marko Irrigation Scheme in Group Village Head Mwenifumbo, echoed similar sentiments.

Elina Mfungwe Chitipa — Mfungwe: irrigation has helped me provide for my children and build a better future.

“We used to depend solely on rain-fed farming, but now I can harvest three times a year. The irrigation scheme has made us food secure and financially independent,” she said.

Chitipa District Irrigation Officer Brino White underscored the benefits of the schemes, noting that they have not only increased food production but also mitigated the effects of climate change.

“These communities used to harvest only once a year. With irrigation, they can now produce food consistently, reducing the risk of hunger. We have also provided training on leadership, agricultural best practices, market research, and climate resilience,” he said.

White also highlighted that the two irrigation schemes have given the farmers in the district to harvest amidst the effects of climate change.

Brino White Chitipa — White: With year-round farming, these communities can now combat hunger and adapt to climate change

Launched in May 2022, Mafinga Irrigation Scheme spans 131 hectares and benefits no fewer than 336 households, while the Marko Irrigation Scheme covers 140 hectares and supports approximately 971 households.

The Mafinga and Marko Irrigation Schemes were constructed under the Programme for Rural Irrigation Development (PRIDE) project with funding from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Adaptation for Smallholder Agriculture Programme (ASAP), and the Malawi Government.