Hichilema calls for African solidarity at Zambia’s 96th Agricultural Show, praises Burundi’s support

President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed gratitude to Burundi President, Evariste Ndayishimiye, for his support, particularly for donating 5,000 metric tonnes of maize and beans.

Hichilema stated the importance of African solidarity during the official opening of the 96th Agricultural and Commercial Cooperative Show in Lusaka on Saturday.

This year’s show, themed “Creating a competitive future,” runs from July 31 to August 5.

Hichilema reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to improving living standards, increasing investments, and strengthening partnerships between the two countries.

“I want to express my commitment to deepening cooperation between Zambia and Burundi in areas such as agriculture, seed production and food security,” Hichilema stated.

He highlighted Zambia’s efforts to adapt to climate change through climate-smart agriculture, genetic material for quick-maturing crops and livestock, mechanization, and precision irrigation.

Hichilema also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and sharing experiences to address common challenges.

“I also want to commend you, my brother, for stabilising Burundi. Like I always say, even though Zambians are getting tired of this, instability in Burundi or the region is instability everywhere and slows down development,” he added.

In his remarks, President Ndayishimiye stated the importance of investments, methodological and technological innovation in achieving common goals.

He cited an example of a successful investment in Zambia’s agricultural sector and expressed his gratitude for the hospitality accorded to him.

“I hope and trust that the agricultural exhibition will lead to concrete actions and improvements in the lives of citizens. Burundi is looking forward to learning from each other and attracting new investors to the sector,” Ndayishimiye said.

In his concluding remarks, Ndayishimiye stressed the importance of collaboration, innovation and investment in driving progress in the agricultural sector and expressed appreciation for the hospitality and opportunities for learning and growth.

Earlier, Dr. Bernard Moonga, President of the Agricultural and Commercial Cooperatives Society of Zambia Limited, announced that this year’s show had recorded seven percent increase in the number of exhibitors.

“This year’s show has 1,405 exhibitors and out of these, the Chinese delegation is the largest with 100 exhibitors,” Moonga said.

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