FARMERS URGED TO WORK WITH THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

By Moses Banda

The Zambia Alliance  of Women has called for closer interface between farmers and officials from the Ministry of Agriculture as it is key towards promoting agricultural production as well as dissemination of appropriate knowledge and technologies to farmers.

Speaking during a meeting with three women's clubs namely Achangu,Umozi and Buyatashi in Mapepe area of Chilanga District, Alliance Executive Director, Edah Chimya says the organisation will  continue creating  platforms for farmers  and the Ministry of Agriculture officials to interact in order to promote good agricultural practices.

She believes this is one way of taking extension services closer to women farmers especially those in rural areas.

Further Mrs.Chimya advised farmers to use organic manure as it is not only environmentally friendly but also increases soil fertility.

She further revealed that some members of Alliance are using organic manure and it has proved to be effective and affordable.

The Zambia Alliance of Women is implementing a project dubbed Addressing Women Issues in Sustainable Diets which is being funded by Hivos Southern Africa.

Meanwhile Ministry of Agriculture, Agriculture Officer , for Chilanga District Mwaba Kamfwa told farmers not to hesitate to engage the ministry whenever they encounter some challenges.

And Ministry of Commerce Trade and Industry,Cooperatives Officer for Chilanga District ,Emmanuel Mapako has called on farmers to work as a team during this period of Covid-19 for them to easily penetrate the market and meet the demand.

He says chain stores such as shoprite do not deal with individual farmers hence the need for farmers to team up.

He further said that though Covid-19 has brought more harm than good,farmers must not be discouraged from producing food.

And speaking earlier on behalf of other farmers, Alice Chungu complained  that due to Covid-19 pandemic it has been difficult for them to sale their produce.