Parliamentary Committee on Budget and Finance to Lobby for $20 Million for Shire Valley Transformation Programme

Chikwawa and Nsanje, Malawi - The Parliamentary Committee on Budget and Finance has announced its intention to lobby for $20 million in funding for the ongoing Multi-Billion Kwacha Shire Valley Transformation Programme (SVTP), writes Cornelius Lupenga. 

The SVTP project, currently under construction in the districts of Chikwawa and Nsanje, aims to transform the Shire Valley region.

The Committee, Gladys Ganda, revealed this information over the weekend following a visit to the construction site to assess the progress made.

Ganda, who is also the parliamentarian for Nsanje Lalanje, expressed satisfaction with the construction works on the canals and outlined the committee's plan to garner support from fellow lawmakers.

"As the committee, we are going to influence our fellow lawmakers to support the project by requesting the Finance Ministry allocate the proposed sum," she stated.

Ganda emphasized that the successful completion of the SVTP project will not only benefit Chikwawa and Nsanje but also ensure food security for the entire country.

Alice Kaunda, the SVTP Communications Manager, acknowledged that the construction work had experienced delays due to the devastation caused by Cyclone Ana last year. H

owever, she confirmed that the first phase of the project, which required $223 million, is nearing completion. Kaunda further revealed that the estimated cost for the second phase of the project is $285 million.

Nardin Kamba, the District Commissioner for Chikwawa, commended the parliamentary committee for visiting the project site and witnessing the progress firsthand. He highlighted the challenges faced by Malawi, which has long relied on rainfed farming.

"With the implementation of the Shire Valley Transformation Programme project, people will be able to cultivate crops two, three, or even four times a year," Kamba remarked, expressing optimism about the positive impact the project will have on agricultural productivity.

The Parliamentary Committee on Budget and Finance's advocacy for $20 million in funding demonstrates their commitment to supporting the Shire Valley Transformation Programme and its potential to enhance food security in the region.

The project, once completed, is expected to bring significant agricultural and economic benefits to Chikwawa, Nsanje, and the entire country.