Stakeholders in the Zambian agriculture sector have hailed Musika Zambia and other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for their investments in the sector.
In collaboration with its partners, Musika Zambia has invested over $90 million to help facilitate markets for small scale farmers across the country.
Speaking in an interview with Lusaka Star, Small Scale Farmers Development Agency (SAFADA) Executive Director Mr. Boyd Moobwe, said that he is impressed with the on going collaboration between NGOs such as Musika and the donor community for continuing to invest in the agriculture sector.
Mr. Moobwe said Musika Zambia should work extra hard to induce perfection in creating a diversified and conducive market environment where farmers have the liberty to make decisions on their products.
“Marketing system of agriculture produce in Zambia is not up-to date hence the need to restructure the market to allow farmers enjoy their business of farming in the country,” Mr. Moobwe said.
He added that the $90 million investment meant to support the market amongst small scale farmers will go a long way towards developing agriculture in the country.
“Musika Zambia should strengthen farmers’ capacity to participate in the competitive market environment rather than supporting already well established private organizations to support farmers,” he added.
Meanwhile, Senior Lecturer and Dean of the University of Zambia (UNZA)’s School of Agricultural Sciences Dr. Benson Chishala, said Musika Zambia has not only invested in the agriculture sector but also other components at UNZA in the school of agriculture.
“Musika Zambia has donated more than $50 thousand to help monitor school inputs and the project has so far benefited both the under graduates and post graduates,” Dr. Chishala said.
Dr. Chishala said the school of agriculture is appreciating its partnership with Musika Zambia in all components, including the curriculum review.
He further said that one of the reviews made was to come up with programmes that will emphasise on incorporating entrepreneurship courses starting from second year students up to fifth year students so that they can be exposed to entrepreneurship.
