As part of ongoing efforts to alleviate persistent hunger and transform Malawi into a food basket, President Lazarus Chakwera toured Mlooka Farm on Tuesday, a solar-powered irrigation scheme capable of cultivating and harvesting food three times a year.
Situated in the area of Senior Chief Mlumbe in Zomba, the Mlooka Solar Powered Irrigation Scheme is a flagship project under the Agriculture, Tourism and Mining (ATM) Strategy. The scheme benefits over 1,000 farmers in Zomba and Chingale, covering 256 hectares, and taps water from the Shire River. It was constructed under the Programme for Rural Irrigation Development (PRIDE), funded by the Malawi Government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Mlooka Irrigation Scheme is part of a broader initiative, joining five other schemes: Mafinga and Marko in Chitipa, Matoponi in Zomba, Wowo in Phalombe, and Lingoni in Machinga. Additional schemes are under construction in Mzenga in Nkhata Bay, Chipofya in Rumphi, and Dowa-Dambo.
Upon arrival at the scheme, President Chakwera, accompanied by First Lady Monica Chakwera, was welcomed by the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Sam Kawale, along with other officials and local chiefs. After being briefed on the farm’s operations, President Chakwera switched on the pumps at the water intake before inspecting the water storage reservoir dam. He then proceeded to the irrigation sites to inspect maize crops. Other crops grown at the scheme include rice and maize.
The Mlooka Solar Powered Irrigation Scheme is a testament to the Chakwera administration’s commitment to revitalizing Malawi’s agriculture sector. By harnessing sustainable technologies and strategic investments, the government aims to enhance food security, boost agricultural productivity, and improve the livelihoods of Malawian farmers.
This visit underscores the administration’s dedication to transforming Malawi’s agricultural landscape and achieving long-term food security for the nation.
