President Lazarus Chakwera yesterday inaugurated the Kholongo multipurpose dam in Dowa, marking the commencement of a transformative water project. This flagship initiative aims to provide clean water to the inhabitants of Kasese, Madisi, Mponela, Mtiti, and adjacent areas within the Dowa district. Additionally, the project is poised to facilitate opportunities for irrigation farming, fish cultivation, and tourism, with plans for the establishment of a creation center.
Addressing attendees during the project’s official launch, President Chakwera emphasized the pivotal role of water availability in fostering socio-economic development and business prosperity. He underscored the significance of equitable water distribution in promoting harmony among citizens and nurturing a peaceful society.
“The launch of this project marks the beginning of a new era to the residents of Kasese, Madisi, Mponela, Mtiti, and the surrounding areas, as this aligns with the government policy of prospering together that starts with good health.
The project is very essential in providing clean water to the residents and promoting irrigation farming to this area” said the President.
In an update shared on his official Facebook page, the President highlighted the significance of the Kholongo multipurpose dam, identifying it as a flagship project within the Water Sector and a key component of the nation’s long-term development agenda outlined in the Malawi Vision 2063 Implementation Plan 1.
Addressing a large gathering of supporters of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) at Madisi Trading Center, President Chakwera expressed confidence in the dam’s capacity to address critical water challenges and affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to water resources for all citizens.
The commencement of construction activities coincided with the observance of World Water Day on March 22nd, 2024, under the theme “Leveraging Water for Peace.”
During the project launch ceremony, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Abida Mia, underscored the project’s role in bolstering access to clean water for surrounding communities, emphasizing its contribution to reliable water supply for residents and the facilitation of extensive irrigation farming and fisheries initiatives spanning over 500 hectares.
Parliamentarian for Dowa Ngala constituency, Arthur Sungitsa, lauded President Chakwera for spearheading the initiation and implementation of the dam construction, highlighting its transformative impact on Dowa’s landscape through various development ventures, including fish and irrigation farming, tourism, and improved water access.
Sungitsa also expressed gratitude to President Chakwera for the distribution of maize flour to families affected by food insecurity in the district.
Construction of the Kholongo multipurpose dam commenced in March 2023 and is slated for completion by February 2026.
