Copperbelt Minister, Elisha Matambo has urged citizens to cultivate on a large scale this farming season and not be deterred by the drought that the country experienced last year.

Speaking when he attended a church building fundraising service at United Church of Zambia (UCZ) saint Andrews congregation in Mufulira, Mr Matambo stated that the country is 

likely to experience good rainfall this year hence the need for citizens to fully participate in agricultural activities.

He stated that this was the only way that the country could be food secure.

And the Minister urged the church to take advantage of the government’s Constituency Development Fund (CDF) empowerment programmes meant to better the lives of citizens.

Mr Matambo said the various programmes such as skills training, empowerment loans and grants are meant to improve citizens’ livelihood and help to reduce poverty.

 Meanwhile, Mr Matambo and his delegation which included United Party for National Development (UPND) Provincial and district officials contributed a total of one hundred and 

three thousand kwacha in cash and pledges towards the building of the church.

UCZ St. Andrews Reverend in Charge, Joseph Simuyi explained that the church building being used is dilapidated as it is an old structure hence the need for a new building.

He said the church began building the new structure about eight years ago but has failed to make progress due to financial challenges.