Agriculture Economist Edify Hamukale says the country has made significant progress in adopting sustainable agriculture practices, despite the 2023 to 2024 drought challenges.
In a telephone interview with ZANIS in Chilanga, Dr Hamukale observed that farmers have shown resilience and adaptability in the face of climate change.
Dr Hamukale cited the adoption of conservation farming and cultivation of alternative crops, such as Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cassava, as a few examples of the innovative strategies being employed by small-scale farmers.
He also noted that the government’s removal of taxation on solar energy equipment has enabled small-scale farmers to adopt irrigation methods, thereby promoting food security and sustainability.
“As we look to the future, it is essential to continue supporting farmers, particularly in areas such as fertilizer distribution and climate-smart agriculture. With the lessons learned from the 2023-2024 drought, Zambia is poised to make even greater strides in its agricultural sector,” Dr Hamusokwe said.
He advised that investments in water supply and storage at the household level, as well as the production of domestic fertilizers, are expected to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
And Dr Hamukale hailed the government for taking a proactive approach to addressing the drought and ensured that no single life was lost due to hunger.
He added that no Zambians were forced to seek refugee status in neighboring countries due to hunger.
