Gov’t Strengthens Mechanisation and Farmer Support in Masaiti
The Ministry of Agriculture has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting agricultural production and productivity in Masaiti through enhanced mechanisation, farmer training, and improved service delivery.
During a courtesy call on the Masaiti District Commissioner, Ms Ennie Matutu, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Mr John Mulongoti, highlighted that Masaiti is among 40 Centres of Excellence for mechanisation across the country.
He explained that the Government, in collaboration with cooperating partners, is digitalising the use of farming equipment to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
“This innovation will allow us to track tractors in real-time, monitor hours worked, and manage bookings more effectively. It will ensure farmers benefit fully while improving efficiency in resource allocation,” Mr Mulongoti said.
He emphasised that machinery alone is insufficient, noting that the training of agricultural officers and farmers on proper usage and maintenance remains a top priority. Mr Mulongoti further confirmed that farmer payments have already commenced and pledged that every farmer would receive their dues.
The Permanent Secretary also revealed that the Government is reviewing the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Facility (SAFF) to address challenges from the previous year and improve access to affordable financing for farmers.
Meanwhile, Ms Matutu commended the Ministry and its partners for investing in farmers and empowering the district through mechanisation. “Our greatest task is to ensure that this machinery is used effectively to prepare fields and boost productivity. Land is the most valuable capital our people have, and I urge our communities not to sell it but to use it productively to improve food security,” she said.
She further advised farmers to reserve enough maize for household consumption, called for timely delivery of inputs, improved access to loans, and the establishment of additional depots and feeder roads to ease transportation of produce. Ms Matutu also highlighted the need for enhanced mobility for agricultural officers to strengthen field monitoring and farmer support.
With continued government backing, Ms Matutu expressed confidence that Masaiti will maintain its position as one of Zambia’s key food baskets.
