By Pemphero Malimba
The Greenbelt Authority (GBA) has said it requires at least K60 billion to develop 5,000 hectares under the mega farms programme over the next five years.
GBA Chief Executive Officer Eric Chidzungu made this announcement when he appeared before the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture in Lilongwe Wednesday.
Chidzungu said they are targeting the cultivation of maize, cotton, wheat, and macadamia in districts such as Mangochi and Nkhata Bay.
“This will depend on investors. Adequate funding from the government is essential to start, and others should appreciate our progress and support us effectively,” Chidzungu said.
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However, he quickly pointed out that the institution is facing funding challenges, citing a K2 billion allocation from the government out of K6.9 billion set aside for the 2024-25 financial year.
“We need at least K18 billion to sustain our projects, including the mega farms and the development and rehabilitation of irrigation schemes across the country,” Chidzungu added.
Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture Chairperson Sameer Suleman said the committee will consult relevant stakeholders to ensure adequate funding for GBA.
“We want the GBA to receive the K18 billion needed this year so that the Mangochi, Nkhata Bay and Karonga schemes can be fully operational,” Suleman said.
