2 weeks Ago
People in traditional authorities (T/As) Kyungu and Mwakaboko are implementing interventions to protect the banks of rivers from erosion.The interventions, under the Climate-Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme, seek to control run-off that erodes river banks and top fertile soil.The interventions include construction of check dams and stone bunds and planting trees, bananas and vetiver along river banks.
In an interview, Iponga Catchment Management Committee treasurer Nitikisiwe Kandonga from T/A Kyungu said the interventions have helped in conserving soil and controlling the flow of water.She said: “We have mastered the art of conserving the soil and environment as we have planted trees, reeds and bananas along river banks. One of such rivers is Tendi.
“We also control waterflow with stone bunds and vetiver grass planted in hills. However, the programme has also economically empowered our families as we receive wages after working under the programme.”On her part, Tendi River hotspot grievance redress mechanism committee member Josophine Msowoya appealed for the provision of more personal protective equipment (PPE) to participants.
“As a committee that receives grievances, we appeal for timely disbursement of payments and provision of PPEs,” she said.In an interview, Karonga Climate-Smart Enhanced Public Works Programme facilitator Austin Kafere said the district’s 16 417 participants have economically benefitted while contributing to environmental conservation.He said: “The interventions along river banks have restored the flow of water at Timoti Irrigation Scheme’s intake which was damaged by floods.
“Now, famers are able to cultivate and produce twice per year, thanks to the interventions under the programme.”The programme is one of the components of Social Support for Resilient Livelihoods Project running with funding from the World Bank and the Multi-Donor Trust Fund.The post Karonga people move to protect river banks, soil appeared first on Nation Online.
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