Fifteen thousand eight hundred and fifty-eight (15,858) farmers have so far redeemed their farming inputs under the Farmer Input Support Program (FISP) in Kabwe district of central province.

Kabwe District Agricultural Coordinator Kokila Mwanza has confirmed that so far 15858 farmers out of 20,764-targeted beneficiaries have successfully redeemed their farming inputs.

Ms Mwanza disclosed that 19,416 farmers are on Authority to Deposit (ATD) and that 18, 235 farmers have already deposited their farmer contribution of K400.

She said that the government is committed to deliver timely farming inputs to farmers and that the distribution process is so far running smoothly.

Ms Mwanza added that with the current pace the district team is working at, they are likely to complete the 2024/2025 FISP distribution process soon.

He was speaking in an interview with national agriculture information services in Kabwe.

Edwin Mweetwa, a Kabwe based farmer who was found redeeming farming inputs has commended government for the timely distribution of farming inputs adding that it will allow him and indeed other farmers to plant on time.

Another farmer, Catherine Mwiinga has also applauded government for the gesture adding that it gives pleasure and motivation to farmers to see inputs readily available.

She added that she is confident that her yield will be okay because other farmers have told her that there is likely to have good rains coupled with timely supplied farming inputs.      

Mr Mweetwa has asked government to continue with the same spirit even the years to come, as timely planting is critical for a good harvest.

Meanwhile, RK Warehouse Manager David Sikazwe said that the exercise is running smoothly and that his warehouse is well stocked with enough both compound D and Urea.-NAIS