Agriculture expert Edify Hamukale has called on seed companies to prioritize the development and investment in drought-resistant seeds, to better align with changing climatic conditions.
Dr. Hamukale emphasized the importance of drought-resistant crops, which can thrive and maintain productivity even in conditions of water scarcity, ensuring food security despite unpredictable weather patterns.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Dr. Hamukale commended the government for commissioning the $35 million Bayer Seed Plant in Kabwe District, Central Province.
He described the plant as the largest maize seed producer in both Central and Southern Africa, noting that it will significantly contribute to Zambia’s export earnings.
“This initiative will not only boost Zambia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but also enhance production in the agriculture sector, especially considering that Zambia is the second-largest seed exporter in Southern Africa,” said Dr. Hamukale.
Dr. Hamukale further stated that such investments should have been made earlier, and he expressed hope that Zambia can eventually eliminate fertilizer imports and achieve self-sufficiency in agricultural production.
By Christabel Kamunu
