The Deputy Minister of Agriculture recently visited the K12 billion Wowo Irrigation Scheme in the area of Traditional Authority Nkhulambe, Phalombe District, to appreciate progress on its rehabilitation following devastation caused by Cyclone Freddy.

The scheme, spanning 310 hectares, is a critical lifeline for local agriculture. Its rehabilitation is being carried out by Foundation for Irrigation and Sustainable Development (FISD), under funding from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) through the Programme for Rural Irrigation Development (PRIDE).

As part of the restoration efforts, FISD is drilling 21 boreholes capable of delivering over 424 litres of water per second. These will be equipped with submersible pumps powered by a 410-kilowatt solar farm, ensuring a sustainable and climate-smart approach to irrigation. The water will be pumped into a newly constructed 10,000m³ reservoir, which will serve as a key distribution point for the scheme.

Once completed, the revitalized Wowo Irrigation Scheme is expected to benefit over 1,570 farming households in the region, improving food security, enhancing livelihoods, and building resilience against future climate shocks.

The Deputy Minister commended the work being done and reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting irrigation development as a pillar for national food production and economic empowerment.