Government’s Presidential Irrigation Initiative has received a major boost, with institutions reporting increased technical capacity following training in Israel.
This includes the Zambia Correctional Service, which now operates more than 2,000 hectares of irrigated land.
Speaking shortly after a team of 14 Zambians who completed training in advanced agricultural technologies arrived at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Israeli Ambassador to Zambia, Ofra Farhi, reaffirmed her government’s commitment to supporting Zambia through Mashav aid programmes. She emphasized Israel’s focus on building practical, home-grown expertise.
Ministry of Agriculture Director, Chizumba Shepande, said the officers who underwent the training will help fast-track the implementation of the Presidential Irrigation Initiative. Dr. Shepande noted that irrigation has become a national priority, especially after last season’s drought led to near-total crop failure in 84 districts.
Meanwhile, the Zambia Correctional Service confirmed that its officers are already applying advanced skills in irrigation engineering, horticulture, and agribusiness. The Service added that the expansion of irrigated land will allow it to contribute more significantly to national food production.
