Key Business Points
- The Shire Valley Transformation Project (SVTP) is set to revitalise agriculture and boost economic growth in Chikwawa and Nsanje districts, with potential benefits for over 48,000 households.
- Integrated public health measures are crucial to prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and bilharzia, which could arise from increased water availability.
- Stronger healthcare systems are necessary to support the project’s success, with local leaders and residents calling for improved health services and clinics in the area.
The Shire Valley Transformation Project (SVTP) is nearing completion, promising to transform livelihoods in the Shire Valley. The irrigation initiative aims to irrigate 43,370 hectares of land, improving food and income security for thousands of households. However, experts are now focusing on potential health risks associated with increased water availability. A study under the Shire Valley Vector Control Project (Shire-Vec) has highlighted the importance of integrating public health measures into irrigation development to prevent a rise in vector-borne diseases.
The study, led by the African Institute for Development Policy (Afidep) in collaboration with Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (Kuhes), Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), and the Malawi Liverpool-Wellcome Programme (MLW), found that stagnant water and poorly maintained canals could contribute to the spread of diseases. Preliminary research findings indicate that bilharzia is more prevalent, particularly among school-aged children. For instance, in Mangulenje Primary School, eight out of 10 children have been found with bilharzia.
SVTP Communications Officer Alice Kaunda acknowledged the concerns and assured the public that safety measures are being implemented. The project is working with the Chikwawa District Health Office and other partners to ensure surrounding communities are protected. Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) have been developed for every canal component, and nearby health facilities are being equipped to respond.
Local leaders have welcomed the development, urging for stronger healthcare systems. Group Village Headman Fombe of Traditional Authority Kasisi said the project offers a fresh start for his people, but emphasized the need for improved health services. Matchaya from Mphamba Village, Traditional Authority Lundu, shared her personal experience, highlighting the challenges of accessing healthcare facilities. As Malawi pushes toward eliminating malaria by 2030, researchers stress that irrigation must go hand-in-hand with robust health safeguards to ensure the promise of hope does not come at the cost of well-being. In Chichewa, this concept is often referred to as "Kusamala mkaka, kusamala matenda" which translates to "preventing diseases, preventing poverty".
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