Regional integration, policy harmonization key to boosting cotton production —Lwanda

Regional integration and policy harmonization are essential for boosting cotton production, according to the Eastern and Southern Cotton Organisation (EASCO).

EASCO Board Chairperson, Driana Lwanda, stated the importance of regional partnerships to foster learning and create opportunities for cotton producers.

Speaking at the recent EASCO Female Extension Officers Training in Lusaka, Lwanda stressed that experience sharing and policy collaboration across the region were critical for the sector’s growth.

Lwanda announced the launch of a regional platform aimed at supporting female extension officers in the cotton industry through mentorship and skills exchange, with a focus on gender equality and empowerment.

“We are here to launch a regional platform that connects female extension workers across Tanzania, Malawi, and Zimbabwe,” she said.

Luanda noted that the initiative targeted Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The programme seeks to enhance women’s participation in cotton production, boost economic resilience and support sustainable practices amid climate challenges.

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The training, supported by We Effect, brought together 15 female extension officers from four countries to develop skills in data management, agroforestry, sustainable cotton production and climate-smart technology.

“Our goal is to empower women with expertise in agroforestry, sustainable cotton production, data management, and climate-smart technologies,” Lwanda added.

She emphasized that capacity building was key to increasing women’s leadership in agricultural development.

Lwanda stated that the initiative aimed to improve cotton production, enhance climate resilience, promote sustainability, and encourage data-driven decision-making, ultimately contributing to regional food security and rural development.

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