By 
President Hakainde Hichilema has announced a significant increase in the Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF), expanding it from K400 million last year to K1.2 billion for this year’s farming season.
Addressing the 4th Session of the 13th National Assembly in Lusaka on Friday, President Hichilema explained that the expansion aimed to support a broader range of crops, livestock and aquaculture.
This initiative was part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance food security, support farmers, and bolster resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.
The President assured that measures had been implemented to prevent hunger, including encouraging winter and early maize cultivation.
He announced that the government planned to contract farmers to supply early maize, which would be delivered by April 2025.
Additionally, affordable financing for mechanization and precision irrigation would be made available to farmers.
“The Government will soon be contracting farmers to supply early maize to be delivered by April 2025 and government is providing affordable financing for mechanization and precision irrigation,” President Hichilema said.
He also noted that the number of banks participating in the financing facility has increased from five to nine, with more expected to join.
The President reiterated that farming inputs would be distributed through the E-Voucher system, enhancing efficiency and transparency.
He added that the government had intensified efforts to combat livestock diseases, including vaccination campaigns. Progress, he said, had been made in producing animal vaccines locally, with a goal of achieving self-sufficiency.
President Hichilema reaffirmed government’s commitment to improving food security, supporting farmers, and enhancing agricultural productivity.
He pointed out ongoing efforts to promote resilience amid climate change and strengthen livestock health and vaccination programmes.
“Government will continue to promote resilience and adaptability amid climate change and enhance livestock health and vaccination efforts,” President Hichilema concluded.
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