Government reaffirms support to farmers

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting small-scale farmers as agriculture remains critical to rural development, food security and economic empowerment. Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Gabriel Pollen, says the government…

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting small-scale farmers as agriculture remains critical to rural development, food security and economic empowerment.

Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Gabriel Pollen, says the government attaches great importance to the agriculture sector because of its contribution to improving livelihoods and driving development in rural communities.

Dr Pollen was speaking when he officiated at this year’s Chibwela Kumushi traditional ceremony of the Soli people of Bunda Bunda Chiefdom in Rufunsa District.

He said the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, remains committed to supporting small-scale farmers through the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP).

“Continued investment in agriculture is important in enabling farmers to increase production, improve household incomes and contribute to national food security,” he said.

Dr Pollen said continued investment in agriculture is important in enabling farmers to increase production, improve household incomes and contribute to national food security.

Meanwhile, Chief Bunda Bunda Chimapepe, the second, congratulated President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election.

In a speech read on his behalf by his representative, Judge Edward Musona, Chief Bunda Bunda said the re-election provides an opportunity for the government to continue implementing development and strengthening democracy.

“The re-election of President Hakainde Hichilema provides an opportunity for the government to continue implementing its development agenda and strengthening democracy,” said Chief Bunda Bunda.

He also stressed the importance of preserving traditional ceremonies as a way of passing cultural values and traditions from one generation to another.

And Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Joe Kalusa commended the people of Rufunsa for re-electing President Hichilema for continued development.

Mr Kalusa said the re-election of President Hichilema attests to how people are appreciating his vision in taking development to all parts of the country.

“You have re-elected President Hichilema because you have seen what his government has done in the five years in power and more is yet to come,”said Mr Kalusa.

He further said traditional ceremonies play an important role in preserving Zambia’s diverse cultural heritage.

Mr Kalusa said such gatherings provide communities with an opportunity to celebrate their traditions while promoting unity and social cohesion.

Rufunsa District Commissioner, Richard Mabena also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with traditional leaders and communities to promote development while preserving cultural heritage.

The ceremony, which was held under the theme “Promoting Cultural Heritage,” brought together traditional leaders, government officials, community members and other dignitaries to celebrate the farming season and the community’s harvest.