By Robert Nayeja
The Shire Valley Transformation Program (SVTP) is set to enhance the provision of safe and clean water in Nsanje and Chikwawa Districts.
Speaking on Tuesday after an SVTP stakeholder tour of the construction site, Nsanje District Commissioner Dominic Mwandira said that, in addition to irrigation canals, the program will provide safe water to communities in the two districts.
“As a district, we are doing all we can to provide safe water to our communities, but we can’t reach everyone. This project will complement government efforts in providing safe and clean water,” he added.Mwandira said that Nsanje was eagerly awaiting the second phase of the project, which will involve most activities in the district.
“Today’s visit to the construction site was very important as it has given us a picture of what is happening on the ground. We have new councillors who were part of the visiting team, and it is important for them to appreciate the project,” said Mwandira.
Acting Project Coordinator for SVTP, Limbani Gomani, said the project was progressing well. He assured the public that a demonstration irrigation block will begin irrigating next year, covering 105 hectares.
“We believe by October 2026, the first block will begin irrigating using the canals we have constructed,” he said.
Gomani also mentioned that the government and the World Bank are reviewing the cost of the project to determine the financial needs for the remaining works.
