PRIDE
The Programme for Rural Irrigation Development (PRIDE) is a collaborative initiative between the Government of Malawi and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), spanning seven years from 2016 to 2023. This program is designed to bolster the resilience of smallholder farmers against food insecurity, climate change, and market fluctuations by developing irrigation systems, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and enhancing market linkages
Established under the Water Resources Act of 2013, the NWRA is mandated to manage, conserve, use, and control water resources in Malawi. Its mission is to regulate and manage these resources for sustainable, effective, and efficient use across all sectors, thereby supporting the country’s socioeconomic growth and development.
- Regulation and Protection:
Developing principles, guidelines, and procedures for water resource allocation, and monitoring compliance with water use permits to prevent over-exploitation and ensure equitable distribution. - Catchment Management: Providing services through regional offices to oversee the conservation and sustainable use of water catchment areas, which are vital for maintaining the water supply necessary for irrigation schemes.
- Legal Oversight:Ensuring that all water-related developments, such as the drilling of boreholes for irrigation, comply with legal requirements. >This includes licensing borehole drillers and contractors to maintain standards and protect water resources.
By fulfilling these roles, the NWRA ensures that PRIDE’s irrigation initiatives are implemented sustainably, safeguarding water resources for current and future agricultural needs. This collaboration exemplifies a holistic approach to rural development, integrating infrastructure development with resource management and community empowerment to achieve long-term food security and economic resilience in Malawi.