According to economist Highvie Hamududu, the agriculture sector in Zambia has been stagnant due to a lack of consistent policies and clear direction from the government. Without a clear plan in place, the sector has struggled to grow and reach its full potential. Hamududu is calling for the government to provide a more structured and focused approach to agriculture in order to drive growth and development in the sector.
In a call for government action, economist Mr. Hamududu has emphasized the need for clear policy direction in the agriculture sector. He argues that it is not enough for the government to prioritize consistency in the mining industry while neglecting the needs of the many Zambians involved in agriculture. Providing a clear and supportive policy framework for agriculture is crucial for the sector’s growth and success.
In order to support the agricultural industry, Mr Hamududu is calling for the government to provide clear policy direction. Specifically, he suggests that crop marketing prices should be announced at the start of each farming season, allowing farmers to make informed decisions about which crops to plant based on expected profits. This could help to increase efficiency and profitability in the agricultural sector.
Currently, farmers are cultivating large amounts of certain crops without knowing if the government will buy them, leading to uncertainty and potential financial loss. By providing clear guidance and communication, the government can help support and stabilize the agricultural sector.
In particular, he is calling for an end to restrictions on the export of agriculture commodities, which he believes will allow farmers to operate their businesses more profitably. By providing a stable and supportive environment for agriculture, the government can help ensure the long-term success of this vital industry.
