Its not true that inputs have not been distributed in Kawambwa – DACO

Kawambwa District Agriculture Coordinator (DACO) Henry Mugomba has refuted reports that the distribution of farming inputs to farmers in the area has not started.

Mr. Mugomba said contrary to the reports, the distribution of fertilizer and seeds to farmers started last week on November 13, 2009.

The DACO also disclosed that about 11856 X50 kg bags of fertilizer and 5850x 10 Kg bags of maize seed have been distributed already.

Mr Mugomba said only 24864 x 50 Kg bags of fertilizer and 3330x 10 Kg bags of maize seeds are yet to be distributed.

He said many farmers have already accessed the seeds while waiting to be given the fertilizer.

The DACO added that the remaining inputs will be dispatched by the end of this week.

Mr Mugomba said it is sad to note that unidentified people could make a false report without verifying the facts on the ground.

He appealed to people to feel free to approach his office instead of reporting matters that are not correct.

The DACO further said the most difficult parts of the district have already been catered for.

Mr Mugomba cited Musungu, Chimpili, Mawaya, Kanengo, Chibote among others to have received the inputs already.

He, however, bemoaned the poor state of Chisembe-Mawaya and Chisembe-Musungu roads.

He said it was difficult to convince the transporters to take the inputs to the areas connected by the two roads because they are in deplorable states.

He commended the transporters for ferrying the inputs to these hard to reach areas despite roads being in bad states.

Meanwhile, some farmers talked to by ZANIS said they have received the seeds and many of them have already planted.

And a check by ZANIS in the area found a number of tracks belonging to local transporters loading the inputs for delivery to farmers.

The check also found some farmers planting maize seeds in their respective fields while waiting for fertilizer which has also been delivered.

ZANIS