With a dash of pomp and splendor, President Hakainde Hichilema officially launched the 2023/2024 planting season in Nyimba, Eastern Province yesterday, December 6, 2023. The President underscored his government’s determination of transforming agriculture into the nation’s primary economic powerhouse.
Addressing Climate Challenges:
Against the backdrop of the climate crisis, President Hichilema, during the launch, underscored the government’s unwavering dedication to promoting irrigation agriculture on both small and large scales. This strategic move aims to mitigate the impact of climate change, ensuring sustainable farming practices in the face of evolving weather patterns.
Financial Inclusion for Farmers:
One of the key initiatives announced was a collaboration with financial institutions to provide widespread access to farming inputs, particularly benefiting those in the public sector. This groundbreaking partnership aims to empower farmers by making essential facilities readily available.
Boosting Productivity and Market Access:
Emphasizing the pivotal role of productivity in achieving national food security, President Hichilema affirmed the government’s commitment to securing markets for potential surpluses. The focus is not only on meeting domestic needs but also on exploring opportunities for export, positioning Zambia as a regional and continental breadbasket.
Community Call to Action:
In a resounding call to citizens, President Hichilema urged collective efforts in maximizing the utilization of every acre of land to enhance yield per acre. This grassroots approach is seen as instrumental in realizing the government’s vision for a flourishing agricultural sector.
Farming as a Business:
President Hichilema passionately declared, “Farming is business. Let’s all embrace it.” This rallying cry encapsulates the transformative mindset required to propel Zambia into a thriving agricultural hub. The government’s proactive measures and visionary leadership in this respect will help set the stage for a new era of prosperity for Zambian farmers.
