GOVT CONDUCTS CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE TRAINING IN SAMFYA

By CEASAR MBEWE

THE Ministry of Agriculture, has rolled out robust trainings on Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) and good agricultural practices in Samfya District to combat the effects of climate change on farming.

Speaking during the training, Crop Husbandry Officer Chibwe Chofwe said the signs of climate change are now undeniable, citing unusual weather patterns such as extended rains in May.

“We are here today, and just look outside. It’s May, and it’s still raining. This is not normal; these are clear signs of climate change. So, we are urging our farmers to take these guidelines seriously,” Mr Chofwe said.

He explained that by adopting CSA practices such as water management, maintaining soil health, crop diversification, livestock management, and using modern agricultural technologies, farmers can still achieve increased productivity and adapt to the current unpredictable climate.

Food and Nutrition Officer Beatrice Kalengo Chiona added that farmers should not only focus on planting climate-resistant crops but also ensure the crops are nutritionally sensitive.

“Even with these challenges, it is still possible for our farmers to grow crops that will contribute to a healthy and productive population. That’s what we want for our country,” Ms Chiona said.

Farmers in attendance also weighed in on the matter, acknowledging their own role in worsening climate effects.

One farmer Means Haggai from Songwe Bwalya cooperative admitted that deforestation was contributing to soil erosion.

“We have cut down trees, and now water is just carrying away the fertile soil. We are seeing the impacts directly in our fields,” he said.

Another farmer, Chola Harriet, thanked the Ministry for the training, saying the practical lessons were timely.

“We are learning things we can actually see happening. This weather is no longer normal it’s hot, then it rains, then it gets very cold. Such conditions are damaging our crops. We even risk losing food because it’s still raining when it’s supposed to be harvesting time. So, thank you to the Ministry for these teachings,” she said.

The trainings aim to equip farmers with skills to adapt to the changing climate while ensuring food security and promoting sustainable farming practices. -NAIS