By Wakisa Myamba

Karonga, February 8, Mana: Green Belt Authority (GBA) Director of Irrigation Operations, Dr Chisomo Kumbuyo, says the rehabilitation of Dwambazi, Lweya, Mlambe and Chipoka irrigation schemes into mega farms will help in boosting agricultural production and commercialisation in the country.

Kumbuyo was speaking on Wednesday at Lusubilo Conference Hall in Karonga during a media orientation for journalists based in the district on GBA projects.

"Currently, GBA is focusing on rehabilitation of irrigation infrastructure such as Mlambe Irrigation Scheme in Mangochi which is about 800 hectares, Ncharo Irrigation Scheme in Chikwawa and the construction of Nthola Ilola Scheme in Karonga. Upon completion of the works, the schemes will contribute towards agricultural production and commercialisation", said Kumbuyo.

He added: "The construction of Nthola Ilola Rice Irrigation Scheme which has components like the construction of a milling and a processing factory, which is at 90 percent completion, and the construction of water intake, which is at 60 percent, are all meant to be completed by the end of February."

Kumbuyo explained that they will carry out additional works at Nthola Ilola Rice processing factory, such as construction of a security fence and a warehouse which will be undertaken during 2024/2025 financial year.

One of the participants, Nation Publications Limited correspondent Jordan Phiri, hailed GBA for the orientation, saying it has come at the right time when some of the projects under GBA are being implemented in the district.

"I would like to urge journalists in the district and across Malawi to exercise their educative and informative role effectively for the public to have knowledge and appreciate the benefits of GBA interventions being carried out in their premises,” said Phiri.