By Chisomo Phiri

Minister of Agriculture, Sam Kawale,has urged  farmers in the country to adopt mechanisation farming to increase agricultural productivity.

Kawale was speaking on Thursday at Mlooka Irrigation Scheme in Zomba during a demonstration of a rice planter by Mahindra Company.

Mahindra Company brought two rice planters, the ‘Walk Behind’ planter which can plant rice on approximately two hectares per day and the ‘Ride On’ planter that can cover over three hectares per day.

“By using the rice planter, more hectares can be covered hence the need for our farmers to have access to the machines,” Kawale said.

He said it is government’s wish to ensure that the country moves from traditional ways of farming and seriously invest in modern and mechanised farming.

The minister disclosed plans to expand Mlooka Irrigation Scheme which has a perennial water source to benefit more farmers.

“Government has invested a lot of money in mega farms for farmers to boost their productivity and prevent hunger. I am personally impressed with Mlowoka Irrigation Scheme and plans are underway to increase the hectarage for massive rice production,” he said.

Kawale, then applauded Mahindra Company for the support of the planter, saying the machinery would ease labour and save time.

In his remarks, Sales and Marketing Officer for Mahindra Company, George Livuwo, said the demonstration was aimed at familiarizing farmers with the machines and for them to realise benefits of the planters.

“We need to be productive as a country by adopting new farming technologies which can directly boost our harvest. We would like to encourage cooperatives to try these machines which can boost their production,” said Livuwo.

Chairperson for Zomba District Council, Bester Chirwa, urged farmers at the scheme to utilize the opportunity for their benefit.

Chirwa thanked government for its effective coordination with Mahindra Company saying the initiative will not only benefit Zomba but the nation as a whole.

Construction of Mlooka Irrigation Scheme, which is currently being utilized by farmers in Chingale, started in December 2022.

The scheme is located in the area of Sub Traditional Authority(T/A) Nkapita and pumps water using solar power from the Shire River.