Northern Zambia poised to become national food basket says Chitimukulu

AMIDST reports of a dryspell in most parts of the country that has affected agriculture, Northern Province stands on the cusp of becoming the next “food basket” of Zambia, according to Paramount Chief Chitimukulu of the Bemba people. 

ZANIS reports that the traditional leader praised the region’s fertile soil and consistent rainfall, urging residents to leverage these advantages and ramp up agricultural production.

“”I do not see why we can not be the food basket of the country if we work hard to produce more food,” declared Chitimukulu, commending the government’s support for local agriculture. 

His optimism was bolstered by recent field visits revealing promising crop growth and a projected bumper maize harvest this season.

“In January, I went around some fields to see how farmers were doing, and I must say I am impressed that people are starting to engage in farming, and I’m very certain we will record a good harvest,” he told ZANIS

Chitimukulu’s call to action extends beyond traditional farmers, emphasizing the need to engage young people in the agricultural sector. 

His message resonated with Chewe Mulenga, Regional Manager for Northern Province at United Capital Fertiliser, who expressed satisfaction with the performance of crops nurtured by his company’s fertilizer.

The success story wasn’t lost on individual farmers either. Patricia Chishala, who received timely inputs and planted early, anticipates a bountiful harvest.

Patricia expressed gratitude to the government for enabling this potential. 

While sharing her joy, fellow farmer Maxwell Chishala issued a cautionary note warning against selling all crops due to high prices.

“We have heard that there is drought in other parts of the country and people might come here to buy our maize so we need to be careful that we don’t sell everything and be affected by hunger,” advised Chishala.

Chishala reminded his peers to prioritize household food security, especially considering potential drought-stricken regions.

Kalemba February 19, 2024