In a move aimed at bolstering national food security and offering a lifeline to drought-stricken regions, the Zambian Air Force (ZAF) is on track to reap a staggering 700 tonnes of maize in the Lufwanyama District this farming season. This significant agricultural undertaking comes in response to President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for the defense forces to actively participate in food production as part of the national drought disaster response. Defense Minister Ambrose Lufuma, speaking during a recent inspection of the sprawling ZAF farm in Lufwanyama, expressed confidence that the anticipated bumper harvest would play a crucial role in driving down the soaring cost of mealie meal, the staple food that graces nearly every Zambian table.
“The defence force is fully committed to delivering on the President’s directive,” declared Minister Lufuma, his words resonating with the promise of relief for households grappling with rising food prices. “ZAF’s foray into agriculture is not just a temporary measure; it’s a strategic step towards ensuring stable food availability for all Zambians.”
Echoing this sentiment, Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo underscored the government’s unwavering focus on making mealie meal affordable for its citizens. He lauded the ZAF’s initiative as a significant contribution towards achieving this critical goal.
Meanwhile, ZAF Commander Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni revealed ambitious plans to further amplify the farm’s output. Capitalising on its strategic location near the Kafue River, the Air Force is gearing up to commence winter maize cultivation through irrigation. This forward-thinking approach promises to unlock the farm’s potential for year-round yields, offering a sustainable solution to the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns.
As the nation grapples with the far-reaching impacts of the ongoing drought, the ZAF’s commitment to agricultural production offers a beacon of hope. This initiative not only promises to inject a substantial quantity of maize into the national supply chain but also demonstrates the defense force’s adaptability and its crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of the Zambian people during times of crisis. The sight of soldiers tending to maize fields in Lufwanyama is a powerful symbol of a nation pulling together, leveraging all its resources to weather the storm and cultivate a future of food security.
