Micro-Drip Irrigation transforms lives in Chikwawa district
The micro-drip irrigation introduced by the NCA/DCA Country Joint Programme project in Chikwawa district is receiving praise from members of the Ngabu community for its transformative impact on their lives.
According to the project’s host Alex Steven Bango, from Gogo village, senior chief Nkhwangwa under T/A Ngabu in the district, the area was plagued by hunger before the irrigation system’s implementation, and traditional subsistence farming was insufficient to sustain livelihoods.
“Initially, the community faced challenges due to climate change, resulting in minimal or no yields,”
“However, with the introduction of micro-drip irrigation by NCA/DCA, the situation has markedly improved,” says Bango.
He highlights the significant increase in farm yields, which now provide surplus produce for both consumption and commercial purposes.
“This newfound agricultural productivity has enabled community members to afford essential expenses such as school fees, which were previously out of reach,” he added.
Bango extends gratitude to the project’s funders for their support in facilitating this development.
Currently, according to Bango, efforts are underway to ensure the project’s sustainability even in the absence of NCA/DCA, with measures being put in place for continuity.
Malita Jingeni, one of the beneficiaries with four children from the same area, urges other community members to adopt micro-drip irrigation for a better farming experience.
Jingeni emphasizes the tangible benefits derived from this farming method and encourages those who have not yet embraced it to join, highlighting the missed opportunities for improvement.
Currently, the project has positively impacted the lives of 173 individuals within the community, marking a significant transformation in their socio-economic conditions.
With funding from NORAD through Nansen grant, the micro-drip irrigation is being implemented in the area under a one year “faith in farmers: boosting local production for food security in Malawi” project, which started in July 2023 and is expected to phase out in June 2024.
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