Govt tips farmers to grow early maturing crops

GOVERNMENT has advised farmers in areas expected to receive reduced rainfall in the country to grow early maturing and drought-resistant crops. Zambia Meteorology Department Principal Meteorologist Rodgers Manjomba says farmers should select crop varieties according to the expected rainfall patterns in their respective areas. Mr Manjomba disclosed that farmers in the central parts of the […]

GOVERNMENT has advised farmers in areas expected to receive reduced rainfall in the country to grow early maturing and drought-resistant crops.

Zambia Meteorology Department Principal Meteorologist Rodgers Manjomba says farmers should select crop varieties according to the expected rainfall patterns in their respective areas.

Mr Manjomba disclosed that farmers in the central parts of the country could consider growing medium-maturing crops, while those in the northern parts, where normal to above-normal rainfall is expected, have a wider choice of crop varieties.

He stated that farmers in areas with adequate rainfall can grow late-maturing crops because the rains are expected to sustain the crops through the growing season.

Mr Manjomba revealed that the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, working with the Ministry of Agriculture, has trained 100 Agricultural Camp Extension Officers to help farmers interpret weather information, package and disseminate meteorological information directly to farmers and also help them to adopt appropriate best farming practices.