By Fostina Mkandawire

Salima, December 3, Mana: As one way of supporting surrounding communities, JCM Solar Company in Salima has distributed farm inputs worth K57 million under its Livelihoods Restoration Programme.

The inputs, which include fertilizer, maize seed, and pesticides, aim to mitigate challenges posed by recent dry spells that affected crop yields in the area.

Speaking Tuesday, during the distribution, JCM Community Liaison Officer, Levison Masamba, said the initiative targets 211 project-affected people and provides resources to enhance food security and economic stability.

“Our goal is to ensure that these communities have sufficient food supplies in the coming year. In addition, the programme, which began in November 2020 and runs until June 2025, also incorporates a revolving loan system through Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) to ensure long-term sustainability," he said.

Masamba said the beneficiaries use smaller quantities of fertilizer to make organic Mbeya manure, an affordable alternative to chemical fertilizer.

One of the beneficiaries from Kanzimbe 2 village, Grace Makanya expressed gratitude to JCM Solar, highlighting the transformative potential of the programme.

“This distribution goes beyond addressing hunger. After harvesting, we sell some produce, which helps us financially. We use the proceeds to tackle household challenges, including paying school fees for our children,” she said.

Makanya also urged fellow recipients to utilize inputs responsibly to combat hunger and foster financial independence.

In her remarks, the Area Extension Development Coordinator for Chinguluwe, Alice Kafunda, described the distribution as a major step toward community development.

“The livelihood Restoration programme is a significant ladder for improving livelihoods and fostering economic growth in this area,” she noted.