Mikuyu Prison installs solar- powered irrigation system

Malawi Prisons Service commissioner for farms and industries Clement Kainja says the installation of solar-powered irrigation system at Mikuyu I Prison in Zomba will enhance food security at the prison.

The commissioner said this last week in Zomba when the consortium of United Purpose, Save the Children and Concern Worldwide in conjunction with the Government of Malawi handed over the system to the correctional facility.

The irrigation system, which will cover 10 hectares, is valued at K40.5 million out of which the Malawi government contributed 50 percent and the other half was met by the consortium.

“The district irrigation office has been providing technical support to the prison staff regarding capacity building related to the scheme maintenance and agronomic practices and will continue mentoring the inmates on the same,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the consortium, United Purpose programme manager Esther Mweso said the crops grown on the scheme will go a long way in providing food for the inmates and the surplus will be sold.

“The income realised will be partly used for the maintenance of the scheme,” she said.