World Vision Zambia hands over Vulamukoko Dam in Katete district
By Justin Njovu, Communications Officer, Zambia
World Vision Zambia, through the Transforming Household Resilience in Vulnerable Environments (THRIVE), has handed over the Vulamukoko Dam valued at K6 million ($375,000 US) in Katete District to the Zambian government to promote all-year-round farming and improve household income through an irrigation system.
Speaking at the handover ceremony held in the Vulamukoko community on 20th September 2022, Livestock and Fisheries minister Hon. Chokozo Chikote commended World Vision Zambia as a partner in development.
“I am happy that World Vision Zambia is taking the lead in helping the vulnerable communities in the country. This investment means that the people of Vulamukoko now have a new source of livelihood,” says Hon. Chikote. “I want first to urge the members of this community to manage usage of the Dam to maximize production crop farming, livestock production, and fish farming in the district. That water you see is money and can help you escape poverty if you use it wisely.”
The minister was impressed with the World Vision model of training communities to promote sustainability and a sense of ownership.
Speaking at the same event, World Vision Zambia National Director John Hasse said the Vulamukoko Dam would provide families with better crops and healthy livestock as water is within reach.
“Families will have an improved quality of life for children by delivering nutritious meals and support for education from sales of surplus produce,” said Mr. Hasse.
The Fisheries and Livestock Minister was impressed with the World Vision model of training communities in sustainability and ownership before implementing their interventions.
And His Royal Highness Chief Mbang’ombe of the Chewa-speaking people of katete and Sinda districts said the people are very excited and appreciative of the investments made by World Vision in his area.
“My people faced so many challenges, but when World Vision came into this community five years ago, we have seen huge development. Today, another milestone for us is the irrigation system, which stretches for two kilometres and supports nearly 185 farming plots used for producing winter maize, tomatoes, and other vegetables. Livestock farmers have also benefited from the Dam through access to drinking water for their animals,” said Chief Mbang’ombe.
The Traditional Leader called on his subjects to protect the Dam by planting trees around the area.