By Wakisa Myamba

Karonga, July 30, Mana: Chairperson for the Parliamentary Committee on Transport and Public Works, Enock Phale Saturday said the committee is impressed with  construction progress of  Nthola-Ilola rice processing factory in Karonga. Phale made the remarks alongside the committee’s tour to Nthola-Ilola Irrigation Scheme in the district which is being implemented by Green Belt Authority (GBA).

parliamentary committee toured the rice processing factory. “We are impressed with the progress which has been registered on this project. It is almost done as it is at 90 percent completion level,” said Phale.,Phale pledged that the committee will continue monitoring and following-up the irrigation’s corresponding water intake construction works until the scheme becomes functional.

In his remarks, Paramount Chief Kyungu applauded the government through GBA for investing in irrigation activities in the district. He said the factory and rice irrigation scheme has great potential to contribute towards the development of the country once completed and utilized efficiently. Director of Irrigation Operations at GBA, Dr Chisomo Kumbuyo asked the parliamentary committee members to assist the institution by lobbying government to ensure that funds allocated to the authority are disbursed in time and in full amounts for fast progression of the project. Kumbuyo said that the authority's projects fully rely on public funds as such any delay in financial disbursement leads to delays and sometimes stalling of projects. "We are committed to delivering this project. We appeal to the committee for your support," Kumbuyo said.

According to the contractor, the rice processing factory will be finished in the next 30 days, Upon completion, the factory is expected to contribute greatly to rice processing and value-addition strides.