Army strengthens agricultural partnerships to boost food security

The Zambia Army has stepped up its collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture and Fisheries and Livestock as part of efforts to strengthen modern farming and aquaculture practices and contribute to national food security.

A delegation led by Zambia Army Agriculture Branch Director General, Brigadier General Zephaniah Phiri, accompanied by Deputy Director General, Colonel Erwin Mumbi and other officers, on Friday visited the Ministry of Agriculture headquarters in Lusaka for discussions with officials from the two ministries.

Phiri said the engagements were aimed at exposing the Army to advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable farming methods that can enhance productivity and improve food systems.

He noted that although the Army’s core responsibility remained safeguarding national security, there was significant potential to increase its role in crop production, livestock farming and aquaculture.

Phiri stressed that improved performance in agricultural activities would require continuous capacity building in both crop and livestock management.

He said the Army was keen to diversify into additional crop and livestock value chains in order to make a greater contribution to the country’s food basket.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Agriculture Director of Agriculture, Chizumba Shepande, encouraged the Army to work closely with agricultural training institutions across the country to equip officers and soldiers with specialised agricultural skills.

Shepande reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministries of Agriculture and Fisheries and Livestock to supporting the Army’s agricultural initiatives, describing such partnerships as vital for economic growth and long-term food security in Zambia.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.