The Zambia National Service (ZNS) in Luapula Province says it has stepped up efforts to curb the smuggling of mealie meal.

ZNS Regional Commander, Brigadier General Simasiku Ikabongo says the command has demonstrated to combat smuggling and illegal harvest of Mukula in the province.

Brig. Gen. Ikabongo notes  that the notable reduction in maize and mealie meal smuggling should, however, be up scaled to levels where the vice will not threaten food security.

ZANIS reports that the Commander was speaking last night during the Officers Annual Ball Luapula Region held in Mansa District.

“Protecting these food resources is essential for sustainable development and aligns with national priorities,” he said.

Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Ikabongo noted that the various initiatives that ZNS has been implementing in the province are improving communities’ livelihoods.

He said Luapula province has managed to get good yields from its farming activities despite the drought the nation is facing.

“We must draw lessons from struggling regions by incorporating climate-resilient farming practices in our strategic programmes which includes planning for irrigation farming considering that we have water bodies that can support all year-round production activities,” he said.

Brig. Gen. Ikabongo also noted that the ZNS has also managed to grade feeder roads in the province to the benefit of the people.

“What we do is for the benefit of the Zambian people and the command has made several achievements that are aimed at ensuring there is food security in the country,” Brigadier General Ikabongo said.

Brig. Gen. Ikabongo also warned officers against political partisanship urging them to remain professional and impartial in the performance of their duties.