By Burnett Munthali
Maize and tomato fields in Rumphi are showing visible signs of progress as beneficiaries of the Dr.Jane Ansah Foundation’s agricultural support put an operational irrigation system to use.
The foundation’s Director of Operations, Lewis Kamundi, said in an interview with local media that farmers are actively working on the project, with irrigation providing reliable water for crop production.
Kamundi said the initiative reflects founder Dr.Jane Ansah’s emphasis on empowering people with the means to become self-reliant rather than relying on temporary assistance.
He said the foundation is supporting cooperatives to help communities build sustainable livelihoods, adding that the progress in Rumphi demonstrates the approach in practice.
“What we are seeing in Rumphi is a practical example of that approach, where people are being supported to build their own productive capacity,” said Kamundi.
He said Ansah recently delivered a similar message in Nkhotakota, where she encouraged communities to embrace cooperatives and use empowerment opportunities to improve their livelihoods.
Kamundi said maize and tomato crops at the Rumphi sites are at different stages of growth, with beneficiaries now focusing on crop maturity, harvesting and strengthening the cooperative’s long-term agricultural activities.
