HH pledges more support for irrigation farming
By Mark Ziligone
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says Government will increase support for irrigation farming in drought-affected regions.
President HICHILEMA says more funds would be allocated towards irrigation projects as a direct response to the ongoing drought which continues to impact large areas of the country.
He says there is need for sustainable agricultural practices particularly in light of the current climatic conditions.
The President adds that there should be proactive approach in ensuring that farmers withstand the challenges that climate change has brought.
President HICHILEMA was speaking in Siavonga District, Southern Province when he met 31 traditional leaders who were in the area to attend the Bagande Lwiindi Traditional Ceremony.
He also called on traditional leaders to collaborate with the government in ensuring that communities are adequately prepared for the shift towards irrigation farming.
And Chairperson of the Southern Province House of Chiefs, Chief NALUBAMBA, expressed gratitude to President HICHILEMA for the ongoing development in the province.
He stressed the importance of implementing measures to combat the effects of the drought which have continued to severely affect many communities in the region.
Chief NALUBAMBA also called for a more coordinated approach to tackling the challenges posed by climate change adding that there is need for long-term solutions to safeguard the livelihood of farmers and local populations.
Meanwhile, President HICHILEMA has directed all Municipal Councils across the country to grade and work on feeder roads without delay.
The President says many Councils have procured earthmoving equipment that have not been fully utilised for developmental purposes.
He further states that the government has allocated Three Million Kwacha per council to be used for fuel during the road upgrading process.
President HICHILEMA was speaking when he graced the 2024 Lwiindi BAGANDE Traditional Ceremony for the Tonga people in Siavonga District.
The President praised Chief SIMAMBA the 11th and the 30 traditional leaders from various parts of the country who attended the ceremony and commended them for their role in preserving Zambia’s cultural heritage.
He noted that it is encouraging to see traditional leaders united in promoting national unity by supporting their cultural ceremonies.
Meanwhile, through his representative, Chief SIMAMBA thanked President HICHILEMA for being the first sitting President to accept the invitation to attend the ceremony.
The Chief said the gesture reflects the President’s commitment to promoting unity through traditional events.
Chief SIMAMBA appealed to the President to address challenges arising from the ongoing drought.
