Melo News | Tuesday, March 5, 2024 | Lusaka
In response to President Hakainde Hichilema’s declaration of the drought situation as a national disaster and an emergency, the Ministry of Defence has taken action by establishing a taskforce that includes the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force (ZAF), and Zambia National Service (ZNS). This taskforce aims to address the pressing issue of drought and ensure food security in the country.
During a press conference held in Lusaka, Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma announced that the ZNS has been directed to begin preparations for irrigated maize production across all farms equipped with center pivots. This move is crucial in mitigating the effects of the drought and ensuring a stable food supply for the nation.
Additionally, Minister Lufuma has assigned the Zambia Air Force and Zambia Army the responsibility of utilizing water resources within and around farms in Copperbelt and North-Western provinces for irrigated maize production. They will employ drip irrigation techniques to maximize water efficiency and increase agricultural output in these regions.
Minister Lufuma emphasized that his ministry will leverage the agricultural expertise of the Zambia National Service by providing technical and mechanical support to the Zambia Army and Zambia Air Force. This collaborative effort will enhance the effectiveness of the taskforce and contribute to the successful implementation of the irrigation projects.
During the same press briefing, ZNS Commander Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi disclosed that the service will suspend wheat cultivation this year to allocate all irrigation equipment to maize production. This strategic decision reflects the urgency of the situation and the commitment of the taskforce to prioritize the production of maize, a staple crop in Zambia.
Lieutenant General Solochi further revealed that the Zambia National Service plans to plant approximately 1,978 hectares of irrigated maize by July 2024. With an estimated yield of 15,000 metric tonnes expected by the end of the third quarter, this initiative will significantly contribute to addressing the food shortage caused by the drought. The taskforce’s efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and mitigating the impact of the drought on the nation’s agricultural sector.
