Government in collaboration with agricultural representatives, has unveiled the Sustainable Agriculture Financing facility, aimed at providing farmers with various loan options, including money, animals, and equipment.
The announcement was made by Central Province Agricultural Coordinator, Etambuyu Anamela, during an Agricultural Roadshow organized by the Conservation Farming Unit under the Accelerated Innovation Delivery initiative in Kapiri Mposhi.
Anamela emphasized the commitment of President Dr Hakainde Hichilema’s administration to mitigating the impact of the climate crisis on farmers.
The government’s efforts include engaging food reserve agents to encourage early and winter cultivation, as well as promoting community-based sales of maize and implementing “food for work” programs.
Furthermore, the government expressed its ongoing support for farmers through various initiatives, with the introduction of the Sustainable Agriculture Finance facility being a significant highlight. This facility will extend its support to fisheries, livestock, irrigation, and power mechanization.
The plan outlines a fishing target of 162,711 farmers in the districts, with individual farmers qualifying for loan allocations ranging from k20,000 to k50,000 at a competitive interest rate of 12%. Additionally, the government has waived taxes on irrigation equipment and involved the defence force in expanding irrigation facilities to enhance production.
Dr. Oliver Kandela Bulaya, Project Coordinator for the Conservation Farming Unit, reiterated the organization’s focus on promoting climate-smart agriculture and its mission to help farmers adapt to conservation agriculture practices. Dr. Bulaya noted the challenges faced by farmers and highlighted the CFU’s efforts in propelling agricultural mechanization through the provision of resources and expertise to smallholder farmers, as well as equipping them with the necessary training and equipment.
Gladys Masawi, a smallholder farmer from the Kashitu area, expressed her appreciation for the support received from the Conservation Farming Unit. She highlighted the positive impact of conservation farming methods on food production and commended the initiative for equipping farmers with the necessary skills and equipment.
The agricultural roadshow served as a platform for farmers to gain insights into the government’s plans to facilitate SAF loans, while also providing them with the opportunity to learn and embrace new agricultural techniques.
The unveiling of the Sustainable Agriculture Financing facility marks a significant step towards supporting Zambian farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural practices in the country.
Reliable and timely news