HH announces $100m investment in Cotton production

By Masauso Mkwayaya

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has announced a 100-million U.S dollar investment in cotton production countrywide.

President HICHILEMA says cotton grown by farmers through outgrower schemes will have a guaranteed market at the Mulungushi Textiles, which is being revamped.

Speaking at the 118th Zambia National Farmers Union -ZNFU- Congress, President HICHILEMA said the Government is restructuring the cotton sector to ensure it contributes to economic growth.

President HICHILEMA has called on  ZNFU to introduce outgrower schemes in sectors such as aquaculture and poultry.

He said the government views outgrower schemes as a key tool to revolutionize the agriculture sector which can boost the economy.

Meanwhile, President HICHILEMA is unhappy with the slow pace at dealing with issues raised by ZNFU last year on issues such as the delay in issuance of water permits.

The President has directed several Ministries such as Water, Local Government and Health to immediately address the unsettled concerns.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister REUBEN MTOLO said the government will continue to support farmers, as demonstrated by the near-completion of farming input deliveries across the Country.

And speaking at the same event, ZNFU President JERVIS ZIMBA assured the government that farmers remain dedicated to contributing to food security despite challenges from the 2023-2024 drought season.

Mr ZIMBA has appealed to President HICHILEMA to abolish local Council levies that are cutting into farmers’ incomes.

He also requested the zero-rating of agricultural products to enhance productivity.

And, Lusaka Province Minister SHEAL MULYATA said the government will support agricultural practices promoting resilience and sustainability.

And United Capital Fertilisers -UFC- Board Member ROY MWAMBA expressed gratitude to the Government for creating an investment-friendly environment.

At the same event, CORTEVA Agri Science Managing Director SAMSON NYENDWA urged President HICHILEMA to combat the sale of fake seeds, which he described as a threat to national food security.

This year’s  ZNFU Congress theme was, “Innovative Solutions for a Climate-Resilient Agriculture Sector.”