Several small-scale farmers in Luwingu district stormed Zambia News and Information Services yesterday to air their grievances over the delayed implementation of Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF) loans in the district.

Accompanied by Senior Chieftainess Chungu of Lupososhi district, the Irate farmers felt that the delay in implementing SAFF is a source of worry.

They said they are not happy with what is happening in the two districts saying delay will adversely affect agriculture production.

Speaking on behalf of the irate farmers, village headman Katangalele whose real name is Evans Chibwe said farmers in Luwingu and Lupososhi district are worried with the slow pace of implementing SAFF in the area.

Headman Katangalele said in some cases maize has reached the stage of applying both basal and top-dressing fertilizers, especially farmers who planted earlier.

“We were told to apply for these loans while also cultivating the land. Maize has reached the stage of applying fertilizer but nothing is forthcoming. We are worried we don’t know what is happening,” headman Katangalele lamented.