By Burnett Munthali
Citizens under the Affordable Inputs Program (AIP) in Mkanda Extension Planning Area (EPA), Mchinji, have expressed concerns about the delayed access to subsidized agricultural inputs, including fertilizer and seeds, following difficulties in obtaining the items in a timely manner.
One woman, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared her frustration, saying that despite presenting their documents to the National Registration Bureau (NRB) for verification, they were unable to find the desired inputs. “We are disappointed. We traveled a long distance to these distribution points to buy these inputs, but when we checked the machines, the inputs were nowhere to be found. The rainy season is already here, and we are worried about when we will be able to buy these inputs,” she lamented.
Musha White Phiri, a Ward Councillor for N’chemani, pointed out the issue with discrepancies in the registration data. “There are issues with mismatched numbers between the details in the national registration certificates and what is reflected in the NRB system. For example, while some have their details appearing as ‘2’ in the NRB system, others show up as ‘7’. This is causing confusion and delays,” said Phiri.
Hastings Yolamu, the district agricultural extension coordinator, assured the public that citizens who are experiencing issues with their registration details or those who are unable to access the inputs will receive assistance. He confirmed that issues with input availability are being handled promptly, with any registration problems being resolved within 24 hours.
The Mkanda EPA has four distribution points, and approximately 9,500 citizens are expected to benefit from the subsidized inputs this season. The delays in accessing inputs have raised concerns among the local community, particularly as the rainy season begins, and they hope for swift resolutions to ensure that they can carry out their agricultural activities on time.
