Maravi

Agriculture PS calls for improved crop markets

Agriculture PS calls for improved crop markets
By Ndinawe Simpelwe
Sat 30 July 2011, 13:59 CAT

AGRICULTURE permanent secretary Abednego Banda says there is need to improve access to markets for the country’s agriculture products. Speaking at this year's Agriculture and commercial show judges’ luncheon at the Showgrounds in Lusaka, Banda said the increased food and cash crop production meant that the country needed to improve its marketing strategy. He said what was important was to improve access to all parts of the country.

“One of the ways in which we can improve market access is by developing agricultural infrastructure such as roads and storage facilities in all our production areas across the country,” Banda said.

He said a stable agricultural production was important for the country’s food security system.

Banda said there was need to build on the achievements that the country had scored in terms of food production through the two consecutive bumper harvests.

He also urged farmers in the country to adopt new improved agricultural practices and technologies that were cost-effective.

“Let me emphasize the need for bringing down the cost of production in our agricultural systems along the value chain. This will bring about increased competitiveness at local, regional and international markets,” he said.

Banda further said there was need to improve infrastructure at the Showgrounds considering the increase in the number of exhibitors and showgoers.

Meanwhile, Cavmont Bank managing director Johan Minnaar said the bank was pleased with the development recorded in various sectors of Zambia’s economy.

Minnaar said the bank was relocating itself in order to remain relevant to the emerging financial needs of the fast growing economy.

He said Cavmont Bank would continue partnering with key stakeholders such as the Agriculture and Commercial Show Society of Zambia in order to encourage sustained growth in agriculture.

This year's agriculture and commercial show is being held under the theme "Shaping tomorrow's world".

Labels: AGRICULTURE

posted by MrK @ 11:12 PM