Rice Milling Plant in Karonga Set to Begin Operations: A Milestone for Malawi's Agriculture

Karonga, Malawi – In a significant development for Malawi's agricultural landscape, the Rice Milling and Processing Plant at the Nthola Ilola Irrigation Scheme in Karonga is poised to commence operations within the next two weeks. This long-awaited project promises to revolutionize rice production, boost local employment, and enhance food security.

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The journey to establish this state-of-the-art rice milling facility has been both arduous and inspiring. Construction of the K772,857,933.13 project began in May 2022, with the Greenbelt Authority (GBA) at the helm. The GBA, known for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural development, has overseen every aspect of the plant's creation.

The facility stands at an impressive 99% completion. Its infrastructure includes a rice milling machine, a grader, a destoner, a polisher, and a packaging machine. These components will work in tandem to process raw paddy into polished rice fit for consumption. The plant's capacity is estimated at 50 tonnes of rice per day, a substantial leap forward for local rice production.

The final piece of the puzzle lies in electricity connection. The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) is set to provide the necessary power supply. Additionally, the plant will have its own transformer, ensuring uninterrupted operations. Once the electrical components are in place, the Rice Milling and Processing Plant will be ready to serve the community.

Economic and Social Impact

Employment Opportunities

Over 100 workers will find employment at the plant, spanning various roles from machine operators to quality control experts. This injection of jobs is a boon for the local workforce.

Farmers' Prosperity

Approximately 2,500 anchor and out-grower farmers associated with the Nthola Ilola Irrigation Scheme will directly benefit from the plant. They can now process their rice locally, reducing transportation costs and increasing their income.

Foreign Exchange

With the plant operational, Malawi can export high-quality rice to neighboring countries. Foreign exchange earnings will strengthen the nation's economy.

Local leaders and community members express their enthusiasm for the project. Sub Traditional Authority Mwangolera lauds the initiative, emphasizing its potential to improve livelihoods. "People from my area will be employed in the factory," he says. "Farmers around Nthola Ilola Irrigation Scheme will have a place to process their rice, and even forex will be earned for the nation through rice sales abroad."

Oswald Gondwe, President of the Nthola Ilola Water Users Association, echoes this sentiment. "For a long time, we've been processing our rice manually," he shares. "The coming of the milling plant is a relief."

Acting Director of Public Works for Karonga District Council, Yamikani Bokosi, acknowledges the financial constraints faced during construction. "Lack of funds," he laments, "is causing delays in completing the Nthola Ilola Irrigation Scheme." However, he remains optimistic that the scheme will soon be operational, allowing for year-round rice cultivation.

As the countdown to the plant's inauguration begins, Karonga anticipates a brighter future—one where locally grown rice sustains households, supports livelihoods, and contributes to Malawi's economic growth. The Rice Milling Plant at Nthola Ilola is more than machinery; it's a symbol of progress, resilience, and community collaboration.

Related stories 

(1) Karonga’s rice milling plant to be operational in two weeks. Read more .

(2) Greenbelt Authority to finalize multi-billion factory on June 30. Read more .

(3) Karonga’ s rice milling plant opens in 2 weeks | The Nation Online. Read more .