Kaoma District Commissioner, Kashina Sheba, has implored farmers to adapt to modern technology in order to increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses and improve the quality of agriculture products.
Speaking in Mangango during the District Agriculture and Commercial Show held under the theme “Fostering Trade and Investment”, Ms Sheba also noted the importance of mechanisation solutions in the entire agriculture value chain from planting up to harvesting and marketing in order to enhance efficiency and profitability in agriculture.
“The adaptation of machinery and modern technology can significantly increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, lower production costs and improve the quality of agricultural products. I, therefore, encourage farmers to invest in mechanisation solutions that will enhance efficiency and profitability,” she said.
The District Commissioner also urged farmers in the district to embrace smart agriculture practices that strengthen resilience and ensure sustainable production.
Ms Sheba further advised farmers to venture in conservation farming, irrigation as well as diversify their farming systems and prioritise the cultivation of drought- resistant crops and seeds such as sorghum, millet among others in order to ensure household food security and income when faced with climate conditions such as low rainfall.
“I urge our farmers to diversify their farming systems and prioritise the cultivation of drought- resistant crops and seeds such as sorghum, millet, cassava, cowpeas and improved drought tolerant maize varieties.
“These crops are better adapted to change the climate conditions and help safeguard household food security and incomes during periods of low rainfall,” she advised.
Ms Sheba also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance agricultural market access, enhance infrastructure and investment opportunities for the citizens.
She further emphasised government’s collaboration with other stakeholders to create an enabling environment through innovation, productivity and resilience in order to attract investment and trade in the district.
Kaoma District Show Society Secretary, Nyambe Simasiku, commended the government for empowering farmers with inputs, mechanisation solutions as well as knowledge on climate smart agriculture farming practices.
Mr Simasiku acknowledged some farmers having access to various inputs through the Farmer Input Support Programme, and called on the government to increase the empowerment in order to cater for all the farmers in the district.
He further thanked the government, farmers, exhibitors and other stakeholders such as Agro dealers, financial institutions among others for the successful organisation and hosting of the event.
The district has successfully conducted eleven shows in various farming camps including the district one.
