Minister Bashe: Mzee Shija Irrigation Scheme to Benefit Farmers in Kahama District

By Mnyika Esther

On September 15, 2024, the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Hussein Bashe (MP), visited Kahama District in Shinyanga Region, where he inspected the Malenge irrigation project in Isagehe Ward. The project, situated in Malenge village, features a dam with a capacity of 600,000 cubic meters and an investment value of TZS 2.5 billion.

The irrigation dam will include primary and secondary water channels with a combined length of 13 kilometers, designed to distribute water to farmlands. Additionally, a designated area will be set aside for livestock watering. The project is being implemented through a partnership between Barrick Gold Corporation and the Government of Tanzania.

“I am directing the National Irrigation Commission to collaborate with Barrick to design an extension of the scheme that will add 400 hectares to the project, enabling over 427 farmers to benefit and secure irrigation for farming up to three times a year,” said Minister Bashe.

Minister Bashe also extended his gratitude to Mr. Shija Lukinga, who generously donated his land to support the project. “This selfless act by Mzee Shija is a rare gift of generosity. I am directing the National Irrigation Commission to register this scheme in honor of Mzee Shija,” he added.

Additionally, Minister Bashe thanked Barrick for funding the project. “The Government will complete the remaining 12 kilometers of the canal, and we will also build the 400 hectares of remaining embankments,” he confirmed.

He further announced that a Center for Agricultural Equipment will be constructed, along with storage warehouses for rice preservation. “I urge the Shinyanga Regional Commissioner, Hon. Anamringi Macha, to hold a good neighborly meeting with the Tabora Regional Commissioner to ensure that the Manonga Basin is preserved for agricultural production infrastructure, rather than residential development. Let us protect agricultural land,” emphasized Minister Bashe.

The Minister also conveyed a message from Her Excellency President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, reassuring the residents of Isagehe Ward that her commitment to agricultural development is steadfast, and she will continue to uplift the livelihoods of farmers across the country.