Farmers in Chama District of Eastern Province have been urged to take part in the district agriculture block shows as they offer a platform for market linkages, among other service providers.
Common Market for Conservation Project Manager Chibale Mwape advises farmers that farming block shows enhance education, awareness and exchange of ideas which translate into improved production.
Mr Mwape says that agriculture as an industry, faces a lot of challenges such as climate change which have been witnessed in most parts of the country in the last farming season of 2023/2024.
ZANIS reports that Mr Mwape was speaking during the block show that was held in Kambombo Camp under the theme “Creating a competitive future”.
Mr Mwape emphasised the importance of supporting the youth in pursuing agricultural careers and empowering them with skills and knowledge they deserve for them to be productive and contribute to the agriculture sector.
In an effort to boost the agriculture sector, the government has introduced the Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF) an initiative designed to empower Zambia’s small scale farmers by providing them with access to essential financial resources.
“With the available resources that we have, we must foster collaboration, share best practices and build resilient supply chains for us to be successful “.he stated.
Mr Mwape has since called on farmers to focus on improving crop yields through the adaption of appropriate technologies such as the use of drought and disease resistance varieties and manage the water resources well through engaging into smart agriculture.
“Let us promote eco-friendly practices, reduce carbon footprint and preserve biodiversity in order to safeguard our environment from the devastating effect of climate change which has threatened our food security not just as a district, but as a nation at large”. He disclosed.
Mr Mwape has cautioned farmers that the crop marketing season is in progress not to sell all the maize that they harvest, but instead should leave enough for consumption in order to ensure food security at household level.
