The Ministry of Agriculture, through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), has signed contracts valued at $112,282,975 with 52 Community Development Councils (CDCs) in Linden (Region 10) to undertake critical drainage and irrigation works.
The signing ceremony, held in the mining town, was attended by Agriculture Minister Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha, who emphasized the government’s commitment to improving drainage and irrigation infrastructure in the region. Minister Mustapha highlighted that these projects represent the first phase of a two-phase initiative, with a total investment of over $224 million planned for 2024.
Among the CDCs awarded contracts were Amelia’s Ward Phase 3 CDC, 1st Ville (Buckville) CDC, Burnham Drive CDC, Dalawalla CDC, Retrieve CDC, and 58 Miles CDC. These groups will carry out drainage and irrigation works in their respective communities, contributing to improved flood prevention and agricultural productivity.
Minister Mustapha also noted that over the past four years, the government has allocated approximately $1.5 billion for other critical projects in Region 10. These projects include the rehabilitation of 34 kilometers of access roads at Ebini/Kimbia to support the corn and soybean initiative, the construction of agro-processing facilities, and the cleaning and desilting of drains in areas such as Silvertown, Wismar, and Retrieve.
Emergency works have also been carried out to clear vital drainage and irrigation channels in communities such as West Watooka, Cacatara Creek, Silvertown, and Wismar. To further support these efforts, the Minister handed over a mini excavator valued at $13 million to assist with cleaning and desilting operations.
The government’s continued investment in Linden’s drainage and irrigation infrastructure is expected to enhance the region’s agricultural capabilities and resilience to flooding, while fostering economic growth and community development.
