Govt launches emergency wetlands farming support for 2,200 vulnerable farmers in Chienge

The government has launched the distribution of the Emergency Wetlands Farming Support Programme in Chienge district of Luapula Province, targeting over 2,200 vulnerable farmers at a cost of over K450,000.

Chienge Town Council Chairperson, Francis Mwanto, stated that this initiative was part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance social welfare and community development.

Speaking at the flag-off event held at Puta Primary School Grounds, Mwanto claimed that the commitment of the new dawn government was aimed at fostering an inclusive and equitable agenda through various support programmes.

“This support to vulnerable farmers and other groups, such as the Emergency Wetlands Farming Support Programme, demonstrates our government’s dedication to inclusivity,” Mwanto said.

He highlighted that government’s decision to distribute farming inputs early was aimed at encouraging timely planting, thereby supporting farmers throughout the season and positioning the country for another bumper harvest next year.

“We are committed to supporting our most vulnerable community members. This distribution drive is a proactive step towards ensuring their basic needs are met and their lives improved,” Mwanto added.

Shinka Chanda, District Community Development Officer from the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, noted that the programme was primarily targeting female-headed households, as well as those with children under the age of five, vulnerable youth and senior citizens over 65 years old.

Approximately 1,100 beneficiaries are expected to receive 5kg of rain-fed maize seed, 50kg of D Compound fertilizer and 50kg of urea fertilizer, while others would receive vegetable seeds along with fertilizers.

The initiative would cover all 15 wards in the district, Chanda stated.

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