Dziwe Irrigation Scheme

Location Dziwe, T/A Kunthembwe, Blantyre West
Beneficiaries 10
Started Oct 2010
Completed Dec 2011

Project Overview

Detailed description of our project goals and methodology

In July 2010, Mai Aisha Trust initiated an irrigation farming project in Dziwe, a community within Traditional Authority Kunthembwe in Blantyre West. This initiative aimed to increase food crop productivity and combat extreme poverty by utilizing the perennial river in the village. The project, which commenced in October 2010 with financial support from Mai Aisha Trust, was developed in collaboration with the community and received technical expertise from the Irrigation Services Division (ISD). A distinctive feature of the Dziwe scheme is its use of a motorized pump, contrasting with other gravity-fed sites. The project has been operational since 2011, contributing significantly to the local food supply.

Challenges We Addressed

The problems our community faced before intervention

  • The Dziwe area was frequently affected by hunger due to climate change.
  • Widespread deforestation for charcoal production worsened environmental conditions.
  • The community lacked the means to address food shortages effectively.

Our Solutions & Approach

Strategic interventions and methodologies implemented

  • An irrigation scheme was established to increase crop productivity.
  • Farmers were enabled to grow crops a minimum of two times a year.
  • A motorized pump was installed to supply water from the local perennial river.

Results & Impact

Measurable outcomes and lasting community benefits

  • The scheme enabled most households to have adequate food.
  • Beneficiaries could sell surplus crops like maize and tomatoes to improve their wellbeing.
  • Over ten households directly benefited from the scheme.