GOVT PLANS TO RE-INTRODUCE MILLET IN FISP

BY CHANESA TEMBO

Government plans to re-introduce the provision of millet seed under the Farmer Input Support Programme -FISP.

Minister of Agriculture REUBEN MTOLO says the move is aimed at promoting the production of millet as a key component of the country’s food system.

Mr. MTOLO says this will also help diversify the food system and prevent malnutrition.

He says the decline in millet production over the recent years calls for the need to promote the importance of the crop, which has nutritional and ecological benefits for consumers.

The Minister was speaking during the launch of the international year of Millet in Lusaka last night.

The event was celebrated in Partnership with the government of India, Food and Agriculture Organization -FAO and the United Nations-UN.

Mr MTOLO also said government plans to re-introduce the provision of millet seed under the Farmer Input Support Programme -FISP.

And Indian High Commissioner to Zambia ASHOCK KUMAR said it is important to incorporate millet in the agricultural system due to its ability to grow in harsh conditions.

Mr. KUMAR said in view of effects of climate change, crop diversification is critical to preventing poverty.

And FAO Country Representative SUZE FILIPPINI said the organisation will ensure that millet is promoted as one of the core crops for the realization of a climate-resilient agri-food systems and a sustainable ecosystem.

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