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DECEMBER 2020 VOLUME 140 DOWNLOAD E-COPIES - WWW.AGRICOOPNEWSPAPER.COM K10

INSIDE: Red cross Kalabo Educates Famers on CSApractices Fodder Production Only Solution for Improved Livestock Nutrition Over K400, 000 Allocated to Cashew Marketing

Participants for the cashew marketing modalities workshop for the 2020/2021 marketing season held at Senanga School of Nursing. Picture by Angela Kabamba- NAIS

By Angela Kabamba he Cashew Infrastructure Development Project (CIDP) has allocated about K478, 000to the Department of Co- operatives in Western Province to undertake the cashew marketing modalities workshops in the 10 cashew imple- menting districts. TProvincial Senior Cooperatives Officer Paos Munzele said the funds are intended to train 141 cooperatives and executive committee members from 50 cooperative Societies where the project is being implemented within the province. And Provincial Principal Agricultural Officer Mwiya Mukungu has assured cashew farmers in the province of an improved marketing arrangement for 2020/2021 marketing season, To page 5

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tomato.It does not matter which ne of the reasons country one goes to, tomato is an why one should Why Grow Tomato? essential commodity, tomato will grow tomato is never run out of business even if because it is a we are long gone tomato will still business and one be a need because it is a delicacy that can be financially reward- used in almost all kinds of food O Mr Tomato ing if all protocols are observed to make sauces/soups. and again when the market It may come in different forms as price is reasonably good. a paste, frozen or dry but it will Eric K Mwenda Higher Price is obtained some- still be a key ingredient. Zambia (Commonly known as Mr. times if the farmer has also man- as a country has up to 60 percent Tomato,The Guru) is Head of aged to produce good quality and of people that use tomatoes on a Vegetable Business Unit at the market where the produce is daily basis because of its nature. Seedco Zambia.If your desire traded (Different fresh market This crop is easy to preserve is to grow Profitable Vegetables prices prevail from different can be frozen whole or dry and please do not hesitate to contact places) although Zambia does not have a him on: Like every business, Tomato has factory to process tomatoes small Mobile+260-966-784515 its’ups and downs and challenges factories are still in existence that Email: agromotivator@gmail. here and there. process tomatoes to avoid loses. com Tomato business is no different It is an important crop that farm- Watch him on ABNTV every but one of the most important ers need to consider growing Wednesday Top star channel things to master when venturing because it is a household crop 107 into tomato production are the that can change people’s lives Facebook:Eric K Mwenda actual trade secrets of growing economically in terms of income the crop. generation. Those that have mastered the art Tomato is already changing peo- of trade have actually advanced, ple’s lives and next time you are many are not aware but the one thinking of growing a cash crop secret that can guarantee a farmer please do not hesitate to venture high yields and income is prac- into Tomato growing. ticing best farming practices or in Most farmers think growing to- all the protocols of growing it. Growing tomatoes require a lot Although very often tomato other words GOOD AGRICUL- mato is like those ‘get rich quick When you take your time to learn of time, energy, determination prices keep fluctuating farmers TURAL PRACTICES(GAP) schemes’, like a one-day thing the ropes, you will realize certain and focus and when all those need not to lose hope in growing There are so many reasons we unfortunately it’s not. things that are not supposed to things are put together one will the crop because at some point can give about trade secrets but Like we have mentioned earlier it be done and others to be done be able to realize that for sure the business will be sustainable KEY among these is to know that takes time and something that re- to avoid looses and as one goes this is a process for them to get and they will be able to make it. every business has its’ way of quires time needs to be natured, on they will be able to eliminate to another level. handling it. one needs to look out for the best some of the things that cause The other reason to grow tomato It takes time to grow a business. varieties and ensure they follow crop loses. is that every household uses

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ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE (AMR) - SHOULD ZAMBIA BE WORRIED?

By Natasha Mhango is specific to medicines which are humans, animals and plants to period’ from the time when the ing of antimicrobials without microbials Resistance. used against bacteria. the environment. Thus the issue last dose of the antibiotic is given a prescription. There is also a A national level multi-sectoral atastrophic pandem- While antimicrobial resistance is of AMR needs to be dealt with until the meat or animal product tendency by livestock farmers AMR Coordinating Committee ics such as COV- a natural process, over use and from all these sectors. is safe for consumption. That is of stocking drugs and engaging was formed to spearhead the ID-19 often lead to misuse of drugs can accelerate Dr. Ntombi Mudenda, a veteri- the time when the body works unskilled people to treat their country’s efforts in address- conspiracy theories the rate at which microorganisms nary doctor in the Department of the medicine out of its system animals. ing AMR, with the Ministry as to why some develop resistance. This entails Clinical Studies at the Univer- and then the animal becomes free In response to this growing of Health and the Ministry of Cpeople are more easily prone that when the human being sity of Zambia and President of of the antibiotic. So that’s the pe- threat, The World Antibi- Fisheries and Livestock being the to infections than others. While or animal falls sick, they may the Veterinary Association of riod of time we say, for instance, otic Awareness Week (WAAW) key players. The AMRCC has individual immune systems do not respond accordingly to the Zambia, explained that Zambia meat should not be consumed, campaign was launched by formulated the AMR National determine a person’s capacity to antibiotic treatment because the has been engaged in research to eggs should not be eaten, milk FAO, WHO and OIE to raise Action Plan which guides what overcome an infection, the dis- bacteria has developed resistance. assess the extent of AMR and should not be consumed from awareness on the importance of Zambia needs to do to tackle this covery of antimicrobials greatly Thus abuse of antibiotics such as the results so far have revealed a animals that are being treated [or antibiotics. The aim is to high- problem. improved the capacity to fight self-prescription; not finishing a need for concern. recently treated] with antibiot- light the steps everyone can take Some of the key strategic areas infectious agents. course of antibiotics; sharing a “We are seeing drugs, especially ics,” Dr. Mudenda explained. to improve antibiotic prescribing are raising awareness on the However, there is a natural course of antibiotics are some of those that are critically important She added that this withdrawal and use. The week has been com- problem, undertaking surveil- phenomenon of antimicrobial the leading ways in which human in treating people - probably period differs from antibiotic memorated every November and lance to quantify the problem and resistance which exists. This beings are causing antimicrobial the last line of drug that can be to antibiotic and can be days to starting from the year 2020 from formulated effective preventive is the fact that microorganisms resistance in humans or livestock. used to treat a condition when weeks long. the18th to the 24th of November. measures, promoting infec- such as bacteria mutate over time AMR is a serious public health everything else is resistant – is The increased demand for Dr. Fusya Goma the Principal tion prevention and conducting and they develop resistance to threat because this resistance now in animal products…that we livestock products has been cited Epidermio-Surveillance and research. medications which previously affects our ability to treat com- are supposed to be consuming,” as one motivating factor behind Information Officer from the She further said that the country could worked against them. This mon and more serious infections. Dr. Mudenda said. the misuse of antimicrobials in National Livestock Epidemiol- has been actively participating in resistance is what is known as AMR can be transmitted from With specific regard to livestock the livestock sector. There is also ogy and Information Centre this WAAW annually spearhead- antimicrobial resistance (AMR). microorganisms in food- products, she said one way AMR lack of sufficient knowledge on (NALEC) under the Ministry ed by the AMRCC. A number Antimicrobial resistance is broad producing livestock and plants, develops in human beings is the correct use of antimicrobials of Fisheries and Livestock said of activities have been done to to include all pathogens such as to human beings through the when the withdrawal period is by some prescribers and lack of that Zambia has responded to the create awareness on AMR and bacteria, viruses, fungi and para- consumption. Resistant microor- not strictly observed. enforcement of medicine control global call for countries to get sites while antibiotic resistance ganisms can also be spread from “The withdrawal period is the laws with a tendency of purchas- involved in the fight against Anti- To page 6

Climate Smart Agriculture to Improve Food Security

international climate change By Sally Mulambya commitments. The President was pleased to resident Edgar note that cashew can also grow in Chagwa has appre- Eastern Province. The President ciated the Zambia disclosed that he looked forward Integrated Forest to seeing more farmers adopting Landscape Project CSA, which includes high value (ZIFLP) introduced to improve P tree crops such as cashew. food security and livelihoods of ZIFL Project is an initiative rural communities while achiev- of the Government of Zambia ing climate change mitigation through a loan facility from the objectives. World Bank at a total cost of President Lungu made the $32.8 million meant to support commendation when he visited rural communities in Eastern the farm of Mr. Charles Tembo, Province to allow them better a ZIFLP Lead Farmer from manage the resources of their Manyane Agriculture Camp in landscapes to reduce deforesta- Chief Mwanjabanthu in Petauke tion, improve landscape manage- District in Eastern Province.Mr. ment and increase environmental Tembo is growing cashew and and economic benefits for practicing Climate Smart Agri- targeted rural communities. culture (CSA) techniques taught Explaining to the President by ZIFLP, a Project under the about his cashew nut farming Ministry of National Develop- and support from Government ment Planning. through the Ministry of National He said the innovation will Development Planning, Mr. improve food security and Tembo expressed gratitude to ZI- livelihoods as well as enable the FLP for the technical support and country attain its climate change mitigation objectives in line with To page 5

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Over K400, 000 Allocated to Cashew Marketing Zambia Red cross Kalabo

Mr. Mukungu disclosed that Educates Famers on the project has so far estab- lished the major foundation as CSApractices far as supportive infrastructure and production is concerned, in terms of establishing and in- creasing the number of cashew trees and feeder roads to the cashew production centres. The project has also established capacity building related pro- grammes for the farmers and extension staff of which the basic foundation has already been built and currently look- ing at the critical stages of the A demonstration of pot-holing in Kalabo value chain like the marketing aspect. He said the workshop was By Nancy Mukelabai called for to look at the modali- ccording to the Agriculture Implementation Plan ties for marketing cashew for 2016-2020, the agricultural sector has continued to the season because marketing be one of the key drivers of the economy in Zam- is an important economic activ- bia, and it supports the livelihood of at least 65% ity for the farmers and noted Participants for the cashew marketing modalities workshop for the 2020/2021 marketing season held at of the population. Senanga School of Nursing. Picture by Angela Kabamba- NAIS that it is through that activity that farmers are able to realize Despite the growth in the sector, agriculture has continued to be the benefits for their invest- Ahampered by challenges such as low production and productivity, lit- cooperative Societies where the marketing modalities organised By Angela Kabamba ments in cashew. tle value addition, limited capital and lack of market access and high project is being implemented by the Cashew Infrastructure Mr. Mukungu stated that as he Cashew Infra- post- harvest crop losses for small scale farmers. within the province. Project in collaboration with the project implementers, they structure Develop- And Provincial Principal Ministry of Agriculture held in are trying to discuss with the ment Project (CIDP) Such challenges always call for active support and participation of Agricultural Officer Mwiya Senanga recently. various stakeholders, district has allocated about all key stakeholders in the agricultural sector based on formidable Mukungu has assured cashew He stated that the project has co-operators from various K478, 000 to the partnership and provision of an enabling environment to ensure that farmers in the province of an been implementing the Cashew cooperative unions and that Department of Cooperatives in the sector contributes effectively towards national economic growth T improved marketing arrange- Infrastructure Development the cashew hub has been put and development. Western Province to undertake ment for 2020/2021 marketing Project (CIDP) whose main aim into zones namely, zone (one) the cashew marketing modali- Zambia’s 2018/2019 farming season was characterized by low rain- season, where they will have an is to try and revive the cashew involving Sioma, Shangombo ties workshops in the 10 cashew fall and prolonged dry spells which negatively affected the agricul- organised access to market their sub-sector so as to ultimately and Senanga districts, zone implementing districts. ture sector particularly crop and livestock production. cash crop, and be able to really improve the livelihoods of (two) involving Nalolo, Provincial Senior Cooperatives appreciate and see the benefits cashew farmers by implement- Mongu, Limulunga, Sikongo Officer Paos Munzele said the As a result, the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), of selling their cashew. ing various activities along the and Kalabo districts, while through the Zambia Vulnerability Assessment Committee conducted funds are intended to train 141 Mr. Mukungu was speaking in value chain from production, zone (three) includes Mitete a needs assessment in the five most affected . cooperatives and executive an interview shortly after the processing, marketing as well as and Lukulu districts. The official report revealed that Southern, Western, North western committee members from 50 training workshop for cashew utilization. He said participants for the and some parts of Eastern province were severely affected. workshop included District Cooperatives Union Board Consequently, the Zambia Red Cross Society National Disaster members and Ministry of Response Team conducted an Emergency Needs Assessment (ENA) Agriculture staff who work out in three districtsin December 2019 namely Kalabo, Limulunga and the modalities and a system Pemba. The assessment was aimed at generating information neces- that need to be put into place sary for decision-making towards response interventions. Later a to ensure that the marketing of concerted and consultative stakeholders meeting was held with the cashew for this season is actu- District Disaster Management Committee. ally set up into an organised manner, through the estab- Subsequently in , the assessment resulted in 11 out of lished structures of the district 24 wards being selected for cash based interventions to address the cooperatives union. To page 6 Mr. Mukungu observed that some of the critical activities on warehouse receipt system as Climate Smart Agriculture to well as the issues of quality on how farmers can benefit from Improve Food Security cashew by selling quality nuts, post-harvest activities on sort- From 4 vention sustainable is to engage ing, grading, as well as to store the private sector who are knowledge about climate smart whatever produce they harvest helping communities to generate agriculture imparted in him and and how to market the com- bankable project proposals for other farmers. modity through the established enterprises around agriculture Mr. Tembo requested the Min- structures for the cooperatives value chain, non-timber forest istry of National Development movements had been tackled. value and eco-tourism,” said Planning through ZIFLP to He noted that farmers had Dr. Banda. “All three technical support him and fellow farmers been quite responsive and are service providers have been se- with a borehole for watering lected, these beingprivate sector excited to engage into these the trees, saying that he had modalities that are being put in that have a good track record totally embraced climate smart and evidence of products on the place, so that some of the chal- agriculture. lenges they had been facing market.” The farmer expressed gratitude Zambia Integrated Forest on marketing cashew from the to His Excellency the President previous seasons on individual Landscape Project’s three for visiting his farm, adding components are meant to create basis, ad hock arrangements, that the visit had given him and and was confident that farmers enabling conditions for liveli- other farmers in the catchment hood investments to be success- will not face such this season. area encouragement to do more fully implemented and provide Mr. Mukungu stated that the and contribute to Zambia’s support for Local Level Plan- initial programme for the mo- development. ning and Emissions Reductions dalities started with Senanga, And ZIFP National Project Framework, focus on activities Sioma and Shangombo in Coordinator Dr. Tasila Banda that improve rural livelihoods, the southern part of Western commended President Lungu conserve ecosystems and Province. and his Government for the reduce Gas Emissions, finance commitment to combat climate activities related to national and change through mitigation and provincial level project coor- adaption interventions such as dination and management, and ZIFLP. provision of assistance in the “As an integrated Project, the event of a disaster or emergency only way to keep these inter- relief.

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ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE (AMR) - SHOULD ZAMBIA BE WORRIED?

From page 4 prudent use, when we look at the that, like most countries in the Antimicrobials: handle with said “Remember that misuse person. Remember that not every policy makers they need to create world, we are also affected with care to encourage best practices and overuse of antimicrobi- infection needs to be treated with promote the prudent use of anti- an enabling environment through antimicrobial resistance. among both the general public als endangers both animal and an antimicrobial. Vaccination, microbials. the legal framework to ensure We want to narrow down and and health workers so as to human health. For Food animal good hygiene and good animal Some of these activities are that there is effective control have a more comprehensive prevent the further spread of producers: we need you! Handle husbandry are essential to reduce development of awareness mate- and use of medicines” Dr. Goma picture and as a country we are drug-resistant infections. antimicrobials with care. Use the use of antimicrobials.” -NAIS rials (which have been distrib- urged. implementing a surveillance As a key take home message them ONLY when prescribed by uted to different target groups), Dr. Geoffrey Mainda - a Veteri- system where we are collecting for the animal keepers Dr.Goma a veterinarian or other authorized conducting of Radio and TV nary Public Health Specialist un- data from humans, from animals programs, media sensitization der the Ministry of Fisheries and in a very structured way and workshop, agro-vet shop sen- Livestock disclosed that Zambia then we will keep on expanding sitization, seminars for poultry has been making strides towards surveillance sites and at some farmers and engagements with establishing an antimicrobial point we anticipating to have a veterinary professionals where surveillance framework aimed at more concrete and clear picture a Continuous Professional Devel- better examining the context and representing the country,” Dr. opment (CPD) was conducted in extent of AMR. Mainda explained. collaboration with the Veterinary Dr. Mainda who is also AMR In the Antimicrobial Coordinat- Association of Zambia.. Focal Point Person and sits on ing Committee, key line minis- “Antimicrobial resistance affects AMR Coordinating Committee tries such as the Ministries, of all of us in that regard all of us (AMRCC) said that research Health, Environment, Agriculture have a role to playwhen we look that has been conducted so far and Fisheries and Livestock, at the wholesalers and distribut- has revealed trends of increasing respectively, are represented ers of medicines, they should AMR in microorganisms that together with other stakeholders sell antibiotics by prescription, cause infections in both humans like the Food and Agriculture Or- when we look at the farmers they and animals. ganization (FAO) and the World need to go and get advice from “Coming back home, the studies Health Organization (WHO) a veterinary professional before have not been too comprehen- among others, to raise awareness treating their animals, when we sive, as they have been limited in and strengthen surveillance on look at the veterinarians, they terms of the number of micro- AMR in the country. need to adhere to standard treat- organisms and the geographic lo- The slogan for the 2020 Anti- ment guidelines and principals of cation. But we have an indication microbial Awareness Week is:

theory lessons on sustainable Zambia Red cross Kalabo vegetable production, manage- mentof crops and cereals and Educates Famers on management of pests and diseas- es, and also practicalon conser- CSApractices vation agriculture practices and From page 5 composite manure formulation. immediate needs of the drought support the affected communities affected communities. The cash in the face of the drought, the Zambia Red Cross Society distribution phase was preceded National Society under the emer- Kalabo Project Officer Mr. Mu- by selection and validation of gency Appeal is now implement- bita Nyambe disclosed that the 4,000 beneficiaries in Buleya, ing the outcome 2 of the Drought office has been in operation in Luanginga, Mapungu, Libonda, Response Project, that is, to Kalabo for a year now. He fur- Salunda, Sishekano, Lutwi, Si- improve the selected communi- ther explained that the Climate hole, Yuka, Liumba and Lukona ties’ resilience to Climate Change Smart Agriculture training was wards. impacts through livelihood sup- important to the lead farmers as port activities on Climate Smart it will help them have first-hand Post selection and validation of Agriculture. information before the rest of the 4,000 beneficiaries in the afore- farmers that are on the grass root said 11 wards, ZRCS launched It’s along this vein, that the Zam- are taught. the Emergency Appeal Project bia Red Cross Society Kalabo in March 2020 with twofold out- field office conducted a five ‘’The training was to give the comes namely; to meet the im- days training of 40 lead farmers lead farmers the knowledge on mediate food and other essential and 11 camp extension officers how to go about agricultural household needs for the selected on Climate Smart Agriculture practices, more so because there and validated 4,000 most vulner- practices. is now an aspect of climate able households through Cash change which we are experienc- Based Intervention. The training was held at Kalabo And also in an effort to further Farmers Training Centre with To page 7

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Zambia Red cross Kalabo ed among farmers, as it relies on natural principles like biodiver- Educates Famers on sity and compositing instead, to produce healthy abundant food. CSApractices The Project Officer Mr. Mubita From page 6 Nyambe further mentioned that crops despite being a lead farmer. after the training workshop, ing. The topics that have been Am glad that Zambia Red Cross Zambia Red Cross Society taught are specific and directly Society has come up with such a Kalabo field office will distribute linked to what is happening now training onClimate Smart Agri- inputs to a target number oftwo like drought and floods. These culture practices. thousand and three hundred two phenomena’s that we are (2,300) farmers in the district. experiencing now, need farmers The training has enlightened me to have adequate knowledge, on how to practice crop rotation The inputs includeseeds of cab- and then explain to them on and inter cropping, formulating bage, rape, okra, cowpeas and what we are able to see ’’ said compost manure which I believe onion, urea and D compound Mr. Nyambe. will improve my productivity. I and Cypermethrine which is an have also learnt that farmers are instecticide for pest control. The Project Officer increasingly adopting conserva- further,observed that practices tion agricultural practices as it ‘’As Zambia Red Cross Society that are drought resilient and promotes minimum soil tillage we expect to see improved pro- adaptive to climate change, are and maintains the permanent soil ductivity and food security from not being implemented, thus re- cover, this is what I will practice our farmers now that the knowl- sulting in low production levels. in my fields in order to improve edge has reached them through He said that these practices need on my food security with less our lead farmers, especially in intensification, and that can labour and costs,’’ said Mr. the communities that we are only be possible when people Tukuluho. intervening. The camp extension are aware and have the correct officers will act as a link between information and knowledge. The Ministry of Agriculture the farmers and the project offic- acting Crop Husbandry Of- ers for better coordination and One of the participants Mr. ficer Mr. Royd Sarenje urged the monitoring purposes.’’ said the Tukuluho of Malumazeze farmers to adopt the practices Project Officer. village in Lukona agricultural being taught to them as they will camp confirmed that their pro- address their financial challenges Notably, it is very clear that duction levels are low as they of having to procure fertilizer for climate smart agriculture is being have to use fertilizer in their farming and improved produc- promoted among small scale fields, which is expensive for tion. farmers for improved harvests them to afford every farming and food security at household season. He reiterated that the use of fer- level, its adoption can benefit tilizer will someday be a thing of them throughout their farming ‘’ I have always had a challenge the past as conservation farming practices. of purchasing fertilizer for my is now being highly recommend- NAIS Staffer Bags Second Prize at SADC

On this premise, the Centre for in groundnut seed production.” Coordination of Agricultural Re- Ms Siwisha’s first article focused search Development for Sothern on Joseph Nyangu, a lead farmer Africa (CCARDESA) has been in of Eastern at the core of promoting CSA Province who has become an technologies in its programmes employer to his fellow farm- in the SADC region. ers through practicing CSA CCARDESA founded by SADC interventions in groundnut Cropserve Mpongwe, member states to harmonise the seed multiplication, while the Commercial Shop No. 2 Machiye Road, Cell: +260 978 168324, 0975 614419. Cropserve Mazabuka, implementation of the agricul- latter article emphasises on the Plot No. 1557, Livinstone Road, Tel: 0966 938651. tural research and development benefits Getrude Banda, a farmer Cropserve Mumbwa (R&D) in the SADC region. from has attained 4ways Building, Agro Complex Plot No. 148, Shop No. 4, Tel: 0979 663713. Cropserve Choma The mission of CCARDESA is through practising Conservation Plot No. 261, Singani Road, Tel: 0977 793377. to promote innovative research, Agriculture who has vowed not Cropserve Lusaka, Plot No. 5055, Mumgwi Road, technology generation and adop- to revert back to conventional Tel: +260 211 212514, Cell: 0979 276770, 0979 26773. tion for sustainable agricultural farming methods. Cropserve Mkushi, development through affective The first prize went to Gabriel Mkushi Town Centre, Independence Avenue, Cell: 0977 63895. Cropserve Kabwe, partnership and capacity build- Masvora from Zimbabwe while Shop No. 6811, New Kasanda Market, Lusaka - Zambia, Cell:0977 898587 ing. the third went to Dickson Mmaba With this backdrop, CCARDESA from Botswana. introduced the Media Engage- Among the countries that partici- ment Initiative early this year, an pated were Malawi, Botswana, Providing Solutions To Optimise Farm Productivity For award which is meant to build Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Farmer Through Innovation & Cost Effective Gloria Siwisha media capacity in disseminating Botswana Minister of Agriculture Quality Products To Provide The Customer and promoting CSA in the SADC Development and Food Security, By Dorcas Kabuya Chaaba region where journalists wrote Karabo Gare, announced the Better Value For Money comprehensive articles on the winners during the CCARDESA topic. 10th Anniversary. Climate Smart Agriculture CCARDESA notes that the Ms. Siwisha intimated that the (CSA) has topped the agenda main aim of the initiative was to competition was very tight and of countries in the world due engage the media in the SADC thanked all the people that liked to climate change and climate region and familiarise them to her CSA feature articles posted variability. CCARDESA -CSA programmes on the CCARDESA Facebook According to the Food and and better equip them to share page adding that she was proud Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the stories in the form of articles to have made it this far. CSA is an approach that helps to in their respective countries and “Climate change is real and has guide actions needed to trans- the region at large. had devastating effects on the form the agricultural systems to For Zambia, National Agricultur- environment and more especially effectively support development al Information Services (NAIS) small scale farmers who produce and ensure food security in a staffer, Gloria Siwisha, based the food we eat,” changing climate. in Chipata, Eastern Province Ms. Siwisha believes that climate CSA recognises that the imple- scooped second prize at this change information is not dis- mentation of options shaped by year’s CCARDESA media award seminated effectively to compel specific countries are key hence held virtually recently. small holder famers to adopt various countries have taken it Her winning entry articles were sustainable agricultural practices upon themselves to improve the titled “Climate Smart Agriculture that would enable them be more field of agriculture due to the impacting farmers’ lives in Zam- resilient to the negative effects. devastating effects of climate bia and CCARDESA builds ca- change and the resultant food pacities of small holder farmers To page 9 insecurity.

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placed in the furrow which is the country such as Southern, Farmers should know that poor Farm Land Preparation then covered with soil. Ridges Lusaka, Western and some parts land preparation can lead to By Lillian Mumba should always follow the of Eastern provinces. poor yields. It is important to of Agriculture and other organi- other crop residues are essential contour. Minimum tillage means reduc- prepare land in good time so ost farmers zation like FAO are promot- organic manure that supports Farmers can also create basins ing tillage operations to the that one is not caught unaware are in the ing alternative ways for land a lot of life in the soil, such as in the soil in which seeds minimum required to plant a when the rain season starts. process of preparation especially now worms and microscopic bacte- are planted. When the rains, crop. For hoe and ox farmers it Early land preparation is still preparing when farmers are faced with the ria, which help release food for come the water is trapped in usually involves scratching or encouraged especially for farm- their land in effects of climate change such the plants. the basins, allowing roots to ripping out the row where the ers practicing conservation agri- Mreadiness for planting their vari- as drought and flooding. Ms. Agnes Musonda, a maize develop and stopping the top crop will be planted and leaving culture. Farmers are encouraged ous crops. Although they are Minimum tillage, pot-holing and soya bean farmer of St. soil and fertilizer from being the rest of the land undisturbed to consult local extension staff advised to start preparing their and the use of adequate tools Antony in washed away. This method is until weeding is required. This regarding land preparation. land immediately after harvest- and equipment contribute to says land preparation starts with usually called pot-holing and method is popularly known as ing, many farmers only start good land preparation practices. removal of shrubs and stumps is most ideal in the dry parts of ripping. after the first rains usually at the Good land preparation involves from the field. The land is then beginning of November. taking care of the soil to ensure ploughed using, hand hoes, Their argument is that the soil it contributes to increased farm oxen or a tractor. is usually hard and they do not productivity. When worked on Ms. Musonda says where she Aquaculture Policy to be Launched have the farm equipment to deal in the right way,the soil can plants her maize she ploughs By Josiah Mpofu Professor Luo said if farmers such asAfrican swine fever and with the hard soil. improve its capacity to retain a flat land popularly known as are well informed they will fully Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Mrs. Emma Mwanza of Nam- water and allow adequate air- “mushime” for easy planting as Fisheries and Livestock Minister participate in livestock develop- which have negatively impacted pundwe in circulation. Water and warmth she uses planting ropes. Where Nkandu Luo said her ministry ment thereby improving their livestock productivity. says she would want to start as in the soil is also important she plants soya beans, she uses will soon launch various policies livelihoods. And the Federal Republic of Ger- early as possible but the own- for seed germination and plant ridges. that will help improve the live- “We request you to partner with many Ambassador Anne Wagner ers of ploughs which she hires growth. “I use ridges to plant my soya stock and aquaculture develop- us in establishing knowledge Mitchell has pledged to work advise to wait till the first rains There are many ways farmers beans so that it is on higher ment in the country. centers in order to equip farmers with the ministry to boost the Professor Luo explained that for which soften the soils. can prepare their land for plant- ground. This helps in keeping with information on how to keep livestock and aquaculture sector a long time the livestock and According to the Food and Ag- ing, but each depends on the the soya bean crop intact even their livestock as most farm- through various interventions. aquaculture sector have lacked riculture Organisation (FAO), type of crops they are planting, when there is too much rain. ers leave their livestock outside Ms. Mitchell said Zambia has serious animal welfare and health land preparation is the first the type of soil they are working When you plant on flat land, without proper shelter and potential to feed its population as operation in ensuring that crops policiesresulting in reduction in subject them to long distances it is rich in natural resources and on and also the rainfall pattern. it can easily be swept away livestock and fish population. can achieve the best yields. It is for water and grazing,” Professor good climatic conditions that can It is important to add organic when there is a flow after heavy Speaking when theFederal Re- essential to provide plants with Luo said. support the growth of the two matter into the soil before prep- rains,” she explained. public of Germany Ambassador the best soil conditions for their aration of the seedbed. Organic Ms. Musonda ensures that Professor Luo added that the sectors. Anne Wagner Mitchell paid a centers will lead to increased “The Germany government is development. matter includes crop residues, the crop residues are covered courtesy call on her at her office fish in the country’s water bodies ready to work with the Zambian A proper seedbed should be green manure and farmyard under the big ridges commonly in Lusaka, Professor Luoasked as many fishermen will have government to ensure that the prepared with the right nutrients manure. The organic matter called “imputa” as they provide for support from the Germany knowledge on good and proper livestock and aquaculture sector and conditions that can allow should be dug into the top layer manure to the soya beans. government to establish knowl- first, the seed to germinate and fishing methods as well as taking are improved in order to tackle of the soil, up to a depth of 15 When making ridges a hoe is edge centers in order to equip fishingas a business. nutritional challenges,” said Ms. then the crop’s establishment to 20 cm. used to ridge up the soil by farmers with information on how She has also called for partner- Mitchell. for its later development. This is the reason why farmers splitting the previous season’s to take care of their livestock and ship in vaccine productionin Traditionally, farmers plough, should not burn their fields after ridges to form new ones in the fish. order to reduce livestock diseases slash and burn but the Ministry harvest as the maize, beans and old furrow. Crop residues are

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DDMC Embarks on Training Satellite Committees A FAIR AMOUNT OF FORAGE SEED PRODUCTION on Preparedness Plan. Miss Lungowe Situmbeko - a Forage Seed Development Spe- By Helen Witti in the district. smart agriculture. cialist under ESLIP –explained Mr. Ntulwa further revealed that Mr. Chilala disclosed that in a that importing forage seed is a disaster manage- satellitecommittees will be charged quest to mitigate on the impact of costly venture which would be ment committee (DDMC) in with the responsibility of identify- climate change, ZIFL Project has unsustainable. partnership with World Vision ing of gaps and available resources embarked on establishing an irriga- has embarked on training satellite at community level. tion scheme in Chikontah Agricul- “Forage seed is not cheap, espe- disaster management committees “I urge all farmers and the commu- tural Camp of Nyimba district. cially when we import it. So [if (SDMC) on preparedness plans. nity at large to be sensitive to early The irrigation scheme which is we have] farmers growing it, it Speaking during the strategizing warning signs of disasters and act aimed at boosting horticulture crop brings down the price and makes meeting, Nyimba DistrictAdmin- before it is too late. When you see production in the area will be using it more available to small-scale istrative Officer Rodwell Ntulwa too many moths, it could be a sign solar powered drip irrigation as it farmers. That’s why we’re pro- said training of satellite commit- of the fall army worm. Please en- is more sustainable. moting forage seed production,” tees is cardinal to preparedness sure that you practice crop rotation He further revealed that the con- Miss Situmbeko said. planningas the district is prone to to cut the cycle of pests,” he said tractor will be on site soon, as most She added that the type of forage challenges such asfloods, accidents Meanwhile,Eastern Provincial of the preliminary work such as ESLIPwas promotingand mak- and drought. Agricultural Coordinator Alex biding has been done. By Natasha Mhango ing accessible to farmers were Mr. Ntulwa disclosed that dealing Chilalahas called on farmers to And Senior Field Crops Officer leguminous such as velvet beans with the community will avail the s the rain season farming practices. be climate resilient and embrace Kelvin Chinama is happy with the and cowpeas which are already DDMC with detailed information hints at its near For farmers in dry areas, the climate smart agriculture. conservation farming adoption in many local crop systems and as to how best human induced oc- arrival, most decision on what to grow and Speaking in an interview with rate of most farmer field school hence easy for farmers to grow. currences can be mitigated in an ef- NAIS in Nyimba district after members in the district. farmers are stock- which seed to use requires well Furthermore, in collaboration fort to avoid disaster that ultimately monitoring visit on farmers Mr. Chinama has since encouraged ing up their seed researched decisions in order to with the School of Agriculture at lead to hunger and poverty. under Zambia Integrated Forestry the remaining farmers to become supplies.In enhancing appropri- ensure that a profitable yield is He revealed that four wards Landscape Project (ZIFL-P), Mr. climate resilient and practice A the University of Zambia, ESLIP ate seed choices, some farmers realized. namely Mtilizi,Ngozi, Lwezi and was enhancing seed accessibility Chilala said the Ministry of Agri- conservation farming technology are privileged to attend seed fairs Seed fairs and field days continue Nyimba East have been ear marked by sourcing a supply of forage culture has a stake in the ZIFL-P in their fields if they are to increase at which they are exposed to to be popular platforms through for the formation of community such as cow pea locally bred by and is charged with the responsi- on production levels. improved technologies and seed which farmers can learn and disaster preparedness plan (CDPP) UNZA, which they were then bility of teaching farmers climate varieties, as well asrecommended share information on seed varie- multiplying through selected for- ties that a best suited to differ- age seed farmers. ent regions. Livestock farmers “What we’re doing at the mo- are not left out from such seed ment is that any district fisheries events. and livestock office that is The seven month dry season is a participating in the program has challenge when it comes to find- registered farmers and is still ing grazing ground for livestock. registering farmers to receive As such forage seed production forage seed packs,” she added. is one effective avenue through In this way, the cost of accessing which farmers can maintain the various forage is made easier nutrition of their livestock when and affordable to smallholder graze lands are reduced to the livestock farmers. bare minimum. However, Miss Situmbeko noted The Golden Valley Agriculture that the challenge that still exists Research Trust(GART) recently is forage utilization and this is held a seed fair in Chisamba another point through which under the theme Technology ESLIP is intervening. Diversity in a Changing Environ- The Programrecently held mentwhich reiterated the grow- aforage seed field day in ing need for farmers to adjust to demonstrate their farming practices in a bid how various leguminous forage to ensure viable returns on their must be grown and how they can investments in an environment be utilized appropriately. that changes not only physically EryNguni was among the farm- but also economically. ers who attended thefield day In response to this need, the Min- with her some of her fellow co- istry of Fisheries and Livestock operative members from Kapulu- through the Enhanced Smallhold- lira Multipurpose Cooperative. er Livestock Program(ESLIP) She explained that as women, was part of the event at which they wanted to learn more about they were showcasing how they the utilization of cow peas for are enhancing the knowledge and both human and livestock nutri- skills of farmers on forage seed tion. production and utilizationas one way of improving the quality of To page 10 their livestock. NAIS Staffer Bags Second Prize at SADC

From page 7 “The decision by CCARDESA to build the capacity of the media on CSA reporting is commendable and will go a long way in ensuring that the masses are kept informed,” she echoed. Ms. Siwisha encouraged journalists in the region to seize the CCA- RDESA Media Engagement Initiative opportunity to share experi- ences on what ‘works’ and does ‘does not work’ on a regional plat- form in order to communicate agricultural information effectively. NAIS Lozi Producer Akakandelwa Songolo in his congratulatory message said the winning of the award by Ms. Gloria Siwisha made the institution a beacon of sustainable agricultural reporting. And Chief Agricultural Information Officer, Stubbs Malambo,thanked Ms. Siwisha for carrying the Zambian flag high at the regional level stating that the officer was hard working and the award was well deserved. As Botswana’s Minister Mr. Gare earlier observedit is almost impos- sible to disseminate vital agricultural information and knowledge to the farming community on CSA without engaging the media. “SADC member states share almost the same culture and ecologi- cal system hence collaborative efforts in coming up with strategies which can help the region attain food security amidst climate change cannot be overemphasised,” he noted. More importantly, CCARDESA has scored a positive stride in building capacity in disseminating and promoting CSA in the SADC region where journalists wrote comprehensive articles on the topic.

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Take Rain forecast seriously- Farmers Urged Chama, Lundazi, Chasefu , Pe- A FAIR AMOUNT OF FORAGE tauke and Kalabo districts includ- ing surrounding area which have SEED PRODUCTION By Helen Witti a high chance of Normal to Below inistry of Normal rainfall. From page 9 Transport and Normal rainfall is rainfall between “I have heard that chickens that are fed on a mixture of cow peas and Communica- 75 and 125 percent of the average maize are very healthy and grow well compared to chickens that are tion Principal person while rainfall below normal left to roam around…so I came here to learn about how to grow this Meteorologists is rainfall less than 75 percent of Felix Imbwae says most parts of cow peas,” Ms. Nguni said. M the average for the period given. the country are expected to ex- She explained that the cooperative she was affiliated to, was He also took time to advise the us- perience a strong La Nina which ers of weather forecast information involved in the growing of bananas, maize and; legumes such as will cause the 2020/2021 season to make use of the daily seven day groundnuts and beans. She said that the cooperatives wanted to di- to experience dry spells and and the ten day weather forecast versify the crops they were growing in order to expand their market. extreme rainfall causing flash for management purposes. Ms. Nguni disclosed that a major challenge that most farmers in floods and floods. He was speaking in Nyimba Chirundu were faced with were pest infestations which were costly Mr. Imbwae disclosed that much district during a key stakeholders to control of Zambia has a high chance of meeting on how this 2020 /2021 “That’s why we want to learn about growing forage seed like cow receiving Normal to Above Normal rain season will be. peas so that we practice crop rotation as one way of having some rainfall for the period October, Zambia Meteorology Depart- relief from pest attacks,” she add. November and December while ment (ZMD) in collaboration with Fortunately,the variety of cowpea that ESLIP was promoting was de- some parts of Chavuma, Zambezi, the Ministry of Agriculture has ZDM’s Principal Meteorologists Felix Imbwaeexplain the details of Kabompo, Manyinga, Mwinilunga, embarked on a robust weather veloped by UNZA’s Department of Crop Science particularly byMs. the 2020/2021 rain season. NellyNkhoma who is soon to be Dr. Nkhoma. Ikelenge, Limulunga, Mongu sensitization programme to create The development of the cowpea variety was part of her PhD studies and Kasama districts are likely to Normal rainfall. ing areas have a high chance of early warning to the general public, which she is very soon to complete. She explained that the aridity receive Normal to Below Normal He however, revealed that Normal to Below Normal rainfall. especially farmers who in most of Chirundu was favorable to the crop which characteristically was rainfall. Ikelenge, Mwinilunga, Kabompo, In the months December, January cases suffer the consequences of Mr. Imbwae explained that during susceptible to diseases when grown in high rainfall areas. Senanga, Kabwe, Kapiri-Mposhi, and February much of the country weather uncertainties. the months of November, Decem- “I started breeding my line of cowpeas when I was doing my Master Serenje, Chitambo, Lavushi- has a high likelihood of receiving The two institutions plan to engage ber and January, most parts of the the provinces and districts in which of Science with UNZA and when I started my PHD, I continued my manda, Mambwe, Petauke, Sinda, Normal to Above Normal rainfall country may of Normal to Above the United Nations Develop- work.I wanted to create more variation in terms of the cowpeas that Katete,Kasenengwa and surround- except for Kasama, Mungwi, ment Programme (UNDP) funded would be beneficial to both humans and livestock. We’ve noticed Strengthening Climate Resilience that most of this cowpea goes to waste. If you ask round, most of the Nsenga Chief applauds state over D.I.S. of Agricultural Livelihoods in people don’t eat cow pea but we’ve just realized that livestock may By Helen Witti Agro-Ecological l and ll in Zambia benefit a lot from it,” Ms.Nkhoma explained. acquire five bags maximum. he gave his vote of thanks during (SCRALA) project is operating to She added that the collaboration between UNZA and ESLIP would Chief Ndake of the Nsenga He added that the E-voucher sys- the 56th independence celebra- share the forecast and itspotential enhance the multiplication of seed would help establish supplies speaking people in Nyimba tem was coupled with commodity tions in Nyimba district implications on the 2020/2021 of forage seed which livestock farmers could easily access in dry district of Eastern province price variation that ultimately He also requested government to farming season. seasons. has commended government posed a challenge in decision consider increasing the number And Eastern Province Senior Field Livestock has the capacity to offer farmers higher returns than crop for removing his district from making. of satellite depots under the Food Crops Officer Kelvin Chinama production however the quality of livestock is critical to ensuring the E-voucher system and put- Chief Ndake also noted that with Reserves Agency (FRA) for the advised camp extension officers to sensitize farmers not to grow their good returns. As such the sustainability of productive livestock ting it on Direct Input Supply Nyimba on DIS, farmers are not 2021/2022 marketing season. crops in the river banks. systems can thrive on the production and utilization of quality forage (D.I.S) system. spending money on transportation He emphasized the need to have seed. of farming inputs as government more satellite depots if the presi- Mr. Chinama emphasized the Chief Ndake said his subjects are need for farmers to use improved elated by government’s move of is delivering right at the farmers dential directive of purchasing door step. one million metric tons of maize agriculture technology such as putting Nyimba on D.I.S as the conservation farming and crop He has also commended govern- is to be actualized. system allows farmers to have diversification. ment for the early distribution of more number of fertilizer bags as He further advised that farmers opposed to the E-voucher system farming inputs in his chiefdom. must take the rainfall forecast seri- that only allowed farmers to Chief Ndake was speaking when To page 11

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www.agricoopnewspaper.com Agricoop Newspaper 0955 791 676 Agricoopnews agricoopnews AGRI-COOP NEWSPAPER, DECEMBER 2020 | VOLUME 140 11 Take Rain forecast seriously- Farmers Urged Curriculum review exercise aimed at improving the agriculture sector From page 10 automatic weather stations of which one was installed in development in order to tackle generation more technologies “I thank my parents and ous as it will help them in plan- Nyimba district and that ZMD is By Josiah the current problems hinder- have to be developed that are lecturers for facilitating my ning their farming activities well. in the process of procuring 140 ing the growth of the sector. aimed at addressing challenges success as well as UNZA, if it Meanwhile eastern province per- Mpofu additional automatic weather Mr. Bwalya explained that facing the farming commu- were not of the bursary I got manent secretary (PS) Veronica stations under the Transforming he Univer- more investment and innova- nity,” said Mr. Bwalya. from UNZA I would have not Mwiche says weather information Landscapes for Resilience and sity of Zambia tions should be put in place in Mr. Bwalya thanked govern- managed to complete school is critical for decision making Development (TRALARD) and across relevant sectors. SCRALA in agro- ecological (UNZA) has order for the country to secure ment for supporting him to because I had financial difficul- The PS was speaking in a speech regions 1 and II. embarked on food and nutrition for its cur- accomplish his programme ties,” said Mr. Bwalya. read for her by Nyimba district The PS encouraged farmers and the curriculum rent and future generation. through the provision of commissioner Rtd Col Peter the general public to plant tree to review exercise aimed at “If we are to realize enough thebursary he obtained from Kunda Kaisa at the meeting. protect the environment and con- T improving the agriculture food for the current and future UNZA. Ms. Mwiche observed that tribute to mitigating the adverse sector in Zambia. climate change has had severe effects of climate change and UNZA Deputy Vice Chan- impacts on many socio- economic climate variability. cellor Tamala Kambikambi sectors of Nyimba district and the She explained that trees are a said issues of climate change same could be said for the future. natural measure to improving She said it is against that back- rainfall performance and ulti- currently affecting farmers’ ground that government has mately reduce impacts of extreme productivity can only be continued to equip ZMD with weather conditions such as floods handled through research modern automatic data collection and droughts. and new innovations. equipment to aid the processing Speaking during the 2020 of weather forecasting. School of Agricultural Sci- Ms. Mwiche disclosed that government has procured 110 ences price giving ceremony for the 26 best perform- ing students in Lusaka, Dr. Kambikambi encouraged the graduates to be entrepreneurs and not only to wait for for- mal employment. And Director in the Ministry of Agriculture Moses Mwale- thanked UNZA for review- ing the curriculum as the initiative will help to enhance training in agri-entrepreneur- ship and generate agricultural evidence practical solutions. Mr. Mwale acknowledged the good collaboration between the Ministry and the UNZA School of Agricultural sci- ences in the areas of capacity building as well as research and development. “The University of Zambia has continued to be instru- mental to the success of the agricultural sector through their active involvement in the planning, implementation and monitoring of our myriad activities especially in the area of research and develop- ment,” Mr. Mwale said. Meanwhile Abel Bwalya, the overall best performing graduate emphasized the need for more investment in the agricultural research and

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SERIOUS CAUTION TO The reason why we should take farming as a business seriously Evans Musonda wrote……… company like ours, not having profits. By the second week he he decided to buy some life FARMERS! An unemployed man was des- an e-mail address means that you had invested in a cart and two insurance and, with the help of perate to support his family. His virtually cease to exist. Without weeks later he bought a broken- an insurance adviser, he picked Dear editor wife did nothing but watch TV e-mail you can hardly expect to down pickup truck. At the end of a plan that suited his newfound all day while his three teenage be employed by a hi-tech firm. the year he owned three trucks. wealth. Then the adviser asked kids had dropped out of high Good day.” His two sons had left their him for his e-mail address in I would like to caution my fellow farmers, school to hang around with the Stunned and dismayed, the man neighborhood gangs to help him order to send the final documents Please if you are in areas that have not received enough rainfall yet local troublemakers. His option left. Not knowing which way to with the tomato business, his electronically. and the temperature is high please don’t plant your crops together limited, he applied for a jani- turn and with just $10 left in his wife was buying the tomatoes, When the man replied that he with fertilizer. The best practices are to plant with D-compound tor’s job at a large company and wallet, he walked past a market and his daughter was taking night didn’t have time to mess with a (basal Fertilizer) unlike how it has been traditionally done as the easily passed the aptitude test. wholesaler and saw a trader courses in accountancy at the lo- computer and had no e-mail ad- fertilizer helps in the establishment of the crops. You risk loosing The human resources manager selling 25lb crates of beautiful cal college so that she could keep dress, the insurance advisor was your seed as the fertilizer can burn your seed if there is no enough told him: “You will be hired at red tomatoes. So he bought a his books. stunned. “What? No computer? moisture on the ground. a minimum wage of $5.05 an crate, carried it to a busy street After five years, he owned a No Internet? No e-mail? Just hour. Let me know your e-mail corner and began selling them. fleet of trucks and warehouse, think where you would be today All the best in your new farming season and please seek some address so that we can get you In less than two hours he sold which his wife supervised, plus if you had all of those five years conservation practices during your farming season. in the loop. Our system will all the tomatoes and made a 100 two tomato farms managed by ago!” automatically e-mail you all the per cent profit. Repeating the the boys. The tomato company’s “Ha!” snorted the man. “If I’d Lamsen Roy Nkhata forms, and advise you when process several more times a day, payroll gave work to hundreds had e-mail five years ago, I to start and where to report on he finished up with nearly $100 of homeless and jobless people. would be sweeping floors at a your first day.” and arrived home that night with His daughter reported that the multinational computer company But the man pointed out that several bags of groceries for his business grossed a million dol- and making $5.05 an hour.” he was too poor to afford a hungry family. lars. Planning for the future, computer, and that therefore he Not surprisingly, he decided to didn’t have an e-mail address. repeat the tomato business the Disclaimer: the information published on this page is from the Facebook group Small Scale Farmers- Farming as a Business. All the opinions pub- The manager replied: “Surely next day, and by working long lished are by the group participants and do not reflect the opinion of Agricoop you must realize that to a hours he quickly multiplied his newspaper or the SSF admins.

Fodder Production Only Solution for Improved Livestock Nutrition

By JOSIAH MPOFU produce adequate and quality “In an effort to address chal- and planned crop rotations. stock to buy other necessities. her livestock. fodder seed production and lenges of chronic nutrition Professor Luo explained that Meanwhile a farmer from “My cows will now grow marketing to ensure the avail- stress on grazing livestock, the direct sale of fodder to Chirundu Ery Nguni expressed health because I will be feeding ith seasonal ability of feed for livestock. government through the Minis- livestock farmers even by confidence over the knowl- them proper food which I will decline She disclosed that inadequate try of Fisheries and Livestock farmers who do not keep live- edge she acquired saying it be growing on my own com- in both supply and poor access by with support from projects stock will lead to increased will go a long way in improv- pared to the past were I used to quantity majority of smallholder farmers such as E-SLIP which is jointly rural incomes. ing her life and fellow farmers depend on natural grass which and quality to quality forage seed is due to funded by International Fund “If farmers are equipped with who usually cultivate maize. was insufficient especially in of forages during prolonged limited information and skills for Agriculture Development the necessary irrigation equip- Mrs. Nguni who currently has the dry season and has less W on how to produce forage and (IFAD), OPEC Fund for Inter- ment and they have access to 20 cows is optimistic that her nutrients,” said Mrs. Nguni. dry spells especially between May and November, there is pasture seed as well as the national Development (OFID), quality seed, it is very possible cattle will now increase as she need for more strategies aimed economical utilization of the has seriously embarked on pas- for them to produce pasture will be able to grow forage for at improving the sustainable commodities. ture and forage development and fodder crops and produce production of livestock food Professor Luo said this in a Programmes at community and seed both on and off season,’ stuffs in order to reduce over speech read for her by Deputy households levels,” professor explained Professor Luo. dependency on communal Director under the department Luo explained. And the University Of Zambia grazing lands. of Livestock Development in Professor Luo emphasized under the Department of Chronic nutritional stress on the Ministry of Fisheries and the need to build capacity for plant science Senior Lecturer grazing livestock such as cattle, Livestock Young Vibetti, dur- smallholder farmers in order Davies Lungu has reaffirmed sheep and goats can lead to ing the pasture and forage field for them to sustainably partici- the institution’s commitment reduced productivity thereby day which was commemorated pate in fodder seed production to develop various forage seed negatively affecting the Dairy under the theme ‘Promoting and marketing to guarantee varieties that are aimed at and Beef industry. Climate Smart Market Ori- adequate quantities and quality improving livestock develop- There is need for constant ented Forage and Forage Seed forage. ment. supply of good nutrition for Production, Conservation and “The Ministry is engaging Dr. Lungu said the institution livestock because a hungry ani- Utilization’ in Chirundu Dis- rural schools and livestock has so far developed climate mal can neither produce quality trict of . service centers in forage smart grass and two cowpea beef nor produce enough milk According to (Allen 1991) demonstration and promotion varieties which will help to consequently. Forage is referred to as plants and establishing a forage net- improve livestock nutrition. In order to help the majority or parts of plants eaten by work system in order to foster “The newly introduced two smallholder farmers access livestock such as cows, rab- exchange and dissemination of cowpea crop varieties called quality forage seed and infor- bits and sheep among others. information between extension Lukusuzi and Lukwankwa are mation as well as skills on how They are edible parts of plants, staff and farmers. These ac- well adapted to the dry low to produce forages and pasture other than separated grain, that tivities are aimed at enhancing rainfall areas such as Chirun- seeds, government through the can provide feed for grazing farmers’ capacity to effectively du and the Gwembe valley,” Smallholder Livestock Invest- animals and can be harvested engage into profitable livestock said Dr. Lungu. ment Programme (E-SLIP), has for feeding. production for improved liveli- Dr. Lungu said the University seriously embarked on pasture Professor Luo added that hoods and ultimately enable was developing forage seed and forage development pro- government is also promoting majority rural poor to move that will help improve com- grammes aimed at boosting the irrigated pasture and fodder out of poverty,” said Professor munal grazing areas through livestock sector. production as well as reduc- Luo. over-sowing of well adapted Fisheries and Livestock Min- ing tax rate on pasture seed She stated that the initiative leguminous species. ister Nkandu Luo explained importation in order to encour- will lead to increased crop Dr. Lungu stressed the impor- that her Ministry is currently age more farmers to effectively production resulting from soil tance of prioritizing pasture educating farmers across the engage into profitable livestock improvement through effective and fodder crops production country on how to sustainably production. use of leguminous fodder crops as farmers can still sell live-

www.agricoopnewspaper.com Agricoop Newspaper 0955 791 676 Agricoopnews agricoopnews 13 AGRI-COOP NEWSPAPER, DECEMBER 2020 | VOLUME 140 EDITORIAL Instill sense of ownership in your workers

The agricultural sector Agricoop we feel more can should have the ability to ductive workforce is ideal success. As a country we need to continues to play a sig- be achieved if those work- understand the impor- to achieving set goals and With a sense of ownership focus our attention on the nificant role in developing ing in the sector realize tance of teamwork and objectives. there will be equal perfor- challenging aspects in our the Zambian economy, the roles they play. should always ensure it There is a sense of owner- mance improvements and environment in regards to despite the global and lo- It takes acombination settles staff disputes while ship among employees environmental steward- recent commodity prices cal socio-economic chal- of business astuteness, making each employee who realize that farming ship. and the obvious COV- lenges caused by unstable optimization and an feel he or she is a key is more than just the op- Don’t underestimate the ID-19 factor which has commodity prices and the over-arching ability to player in the operation eration that brings food to strength of teamwork as affected the agricultural COVID-19 pandemic. challenge ones status quo. and success of the farm. the table but also that it is farmers because operat- sector, these things can However, the agricultural There is need for farm There is need to promote what allows them to set up ing independently doesn’t easily be overcome with industry has remained managers to look at their healthy relationships a legacy for the future. work at all. Nothing gets the right attitude towards productive, profitable and workers talents andcom- among employees and Whether it is through done by one person or one productivity. As farmers withstood both internal petencies, to ensure that the communities where training and development team alone. set high expectations for and external shocks the they get the right fit for it operates, but that the at the start of one’s career, Let us empowereach other yourselves. sector has been facing; that individual to not only challenge lies in finding identify deficiencies and with knowledge through careful management enjoy their work but con- the right balance between set up developmental pro- training and education to by most small and me- tribute positively to the respecting and accom- grammes to ensure that push us into the future. dium scale farmers has end goal which is increas- modating the difference- your employees achieve remainedan important ing the food basket. beliefs, managers need to the best they can and element to the survival There is need to ensure teach their employees how provide a valuable contri- of this sector as a con- well-coordinated work- to co-exist. bution to the sector. tributor to the nation’s force, which is fundamen- By investing in the The sense of ownership EDITORIAL economy. tal to increasing efficiency, well-being of your em- brings about a sense of Farming is a profession productivity and the over- ployees you will record purpose and urgency that deserves serious plan- all success of any sector. worthwhile returns. As in our teams and that’s Woodgate House 2nd Floor, Room 208 Cairo Road Luaska. ning and dedication in For any business to be Agricoop we believe a something that makes a Tell: +260 211 23 99 38, 095 0895120 terms of management as effective, its management well-coordinated and pro- big difference in ensuring E:[email protected], W:www.agricoopnewspaper.com

What are sex reversed fingerlings?

ou will sex of the fish has not been dif- ably the most effective and the hormone treated feed is the male hormone for sex reversal consider ferentiated, the fries is fed with widely used method. However, first feed provided, immediately of the common breams, has sex reversed feed diet that is supplemented it is important to understand after the yolk sac. Because, you proved reasonably and above fingerlings if with male steroids containing that the success of the hormo- will all need to beat the chances that it provides both practical you do not 17α- methyl testosterone (MT) nal application of sexual rever- of failure or perhaps reduce the and efficient methods, better only look at for a period between 25 – 30 sal depends on the following. probability of female existence and safer enough than any fish farming on its perspective days which then turns all the a.Timing of the application after the treatment. other alternatives known to Alex Choompo Yas a lucrative business unless females into males. This is fisheries science today. Cell: 0977119765 you also consider yourself as because the early sexual matu- b. Duration of the days Even if the media magnifies the [email protected] a contributor to national food ration of tilapia often becomes c. Dose of the hormone fear of hormone use; security. To venture into aqua- a major obstacle for successful d. The physical and Let me conclude that, the use of culture, you have hydrological to embrace tech- environment nology, research The most stunning ques- e. and development. The thermo- The most stun- tion that needs to be an- static nature ning question of your that needs to be artificial answered, hence swered, hence still remains, treatment still remains, what environment are sex reversed what are sex reversed fin- fingerlings? In fact, the gerlings? adminis- Sex reversed tration of fingerlings are the male simply fish the hormone is size of a finger that have been tilapia farming. Therefore, out- best done during the period of converted or hybridized into standing production of Tilapia sexual differentiation, for one a single gender of either male is best achieved with the use to achieve a successful sex or female, by a process known of all male tilapia, favored not reversal. This must as well ex- as sex reversal through the use only because of the unwanted plain that, the functioning sex hormones. For example, sex reproduction caused by females is only determined after about reversal technique is made pos- but because they are also three weeks, making suitable sible by administering the male superior to females in regard to timing estimates to begin at hormone, known as 17 alpha growth rate. around 18 days. methyl testosterone, MT. With Let me keep the dose of the this hormone we are able to Several methods exist and have hormone, a subject for another produce all male stock prefer- been used to produce all male day, but It is important to keep ably because males have a fast fingerlings and the use of 17α- in mind that, Genetically, production growth value. methyl testosterone, MT, is all embryos are already sex one of them that has been used differentiated upon fertiliza- After spawning, the fry under since the 1970’s. the hormonal tion by their existing chro- the age of 18 days when the sex reversal of breams is prob- mosomes. Hence and ideally,

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Farmers to Receive Food security pack

By Peter Zimba Over 300 Farmers in Isoka Security Pack (FSP) for the And Nkombwa Ward Councilor District of Muchinga Prov- 2020/2021 farming season. Humphrey Nzunda thanked The 300 Farmers were selected ince have been selected Government through the Min- by the Area Food Security to benefit from the Food istry of Community Develop- Committee to benefit from the ment and Social Services for FSP following government’s selecting his ward to be among stipulated selection criteria of the beneficiaries to the FSP. choosing vulnerable but viable He also appealed to the relevant farmers. authorities to consider increas- Better farms, better lives; District Community Develop- ing the number of beneficiaries ment Officer (DCDO) Monde in his ward. Bayer prevents the COVID-19 health Mbindo confirmed the develop- ment in an interview with the problem from turning into a hunger problem National Agriculture Informa- by Du Preez de Villiers tion Services (NAIS). Quote Ms. Mbindo disclosed that n the fight against survival caused by the District has received 600 Ithe lockdown, Bayer Crop Sciences by 50kg bags of compound D donated 100 tonnes of maize to the and 300 by 50kg bags of Urea Minister of Agriculture, Hon Michael there is no state JZ Katambo, for distribution in the six fertilizers. provinces most severely impacted by She added that the district is of perfection the pandemic. expected to receive maize and Bayer needs no introduction, but there is aways their activities, causes and involve- legume seeds to be distributed ment in various projects is worthy of soon to the selected beneficiar- praise. This global enterprise is on the ies. room for im- forefront in research in life sciences, The DCDO thanked govern- health, and nutrition. They have a provment powerful vision, encapsulated in the ment for the good gesture of slogan: Health for all and hunger for providing the inputs early none. and that this will help fam- In this regard, their latest pro- gramme is to support destressed ers to plan well and conduct unknown small-scale farmers as well as small- their agronomical practices in holder dwellers while stimulating cross The Territory Manager for Bayer Limited, Paul Kakapula, Site Lead Director, good time for increased yields, value chain engagement, to secure in- Mateyo Banda, and members of staff at the launch of the better farms, bet- household income, nutrition come in the aftermath of the COVID-19 ter lives COVID-19 relief programme on 22 October 2020. pandemic. and food security. According to Paul Kapapula, Terri- tory Manager of Bayer, the economy donation. Next year we are going to will most certainly recover faster donate another 100 metric tonnes to through increased farmer productiv- farmers,” Paul says. During this period ity. He noted that this will be achieved over 100 000 farmers will be supported through enabling access to innovative in Zambia. tools for Zambian smallholder farmers After the launch in Zambia, this bet- DEKALB SEED and reducing their cost burden in the ter farms, better lives programme will upcoming season. also be presented in Tanzania, Kenya, NEW LOCAL SEEDS 97% of farms are smaller than ten Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Malawi, South hectares, but they produce 80% of Africa, and Mozambique. Through this the food in Sub Saharan Africa. These Minister of Agriculture Hon Micheal programme, Bayer aims to help 700 smallholder farmers face many chal- JZ Katambo, MP, officially launched 000 smallholder farmers in Africa be- lenges accessing the quality and reli- the Bayer better farms, better tween 2020 and 2022. able products they need to produce lives COVID-19 relief. Looking on This programme shows Bayer’s high yields to support their families is the Territory Manager for Bayer global objective to empower 100 000 DKC80-33 • Early Maturing DK777 • Medium Maturing • Good tolerance to stress and • Suitable for mid-altitude and communities. 000 farmers by 2030. It will strengthen diseases environments Ltd, Paul Kapapula, and the CEO of • Reliable yielder • Excellent yield As a result of COVID-19, smallholder Conservation Farming Unit, Collins smallholder farmers, who are critical to • Double cobbing potential • Double cobbing potential farmers and food security are even Nkatika. food security in Zambia and Africa, by under more immense stress. Lock- providing them with their high-quality downs have resulted in great logistics hybrid maize seed with continuous challenges and some had difficulties In short, better farms lead to better technical support until harvest time. accessing seed and other inputs. lives.” This initiative will put a special focus Paul says: “In cooperation with their The main thrust of the programme on female farmers to ensure they get conservation farming partners, we aim will be the provision of free maize the resources and knowledge they to boost food security as well as aid for starter packs combined with service need to make the best of the situation DKC90-89 • Medium Maturing A successful growing season should always include Dekalb Maize seed varieties: The ‘trusted and stable” DK 777 (Shoma). Good yielder, stable DKC80-53 • Medium Maturing recovery and long-term resilience. We and knowledge of their collaborators. in which they find themselves. , double cobbing potential, excellent flint grain quality and responds very • Good poundability well to good management (can tolerate higher plant populations). • Excellent germination and strive to equip farmers to grow more, “This programme will be implemented • Good tolerance to stress. Second in the rank is the ‘real deal” DKC 90-89 (Ngao-Ngao). Medium emergence Should not be planted in Grey maturing hybrid with High yield potential of 12tons/ ha and good tolerance • Good tolerance to diseases using less, while collectively help- on the ground by a conservation farm- Leaf Spot hotspots to stress. This forms the foundation of your success. (GLS, Blight, Rust and Cob Rot) • Very good Diplodia resistance The ‘early maturing’ DKC 80-33 (Tamanga) is the reliable yielder with • Suitable for mid-altitude ing unit. We shall then support them double cobbing potential. It is an excellent hybrid for winter maize environments ing to fight climate change, conserve cropping. Secures your food security. resources, improve lives and establish through value chain linkages. This is For more information on how you CopperBelt Region: Northern-Muchinga Region : food security.” what we are following up in the coming can benefit from Bayer, call Henry Maria Kaindu - 0964291643 Victor Gondwe - 0962909135

Paul says: “We believe that better year,” Paul says. Mutelo on +26-096-759-6475 or Lusaka- Western Region: Geoffrey Matatu - 0964177069 Central- Luapula Regions: farms produce better food. It is from This donation is worth slightly over send an e-mail to Henry.mutelo@ Addson Ngoma - 0968081695 better farms that we create jobs and $200 000, and is going to support 50 bayer.com, or contact Emmanuel 000 farmers. If we look at a household Banda on +26-096-360-4694 or Eastern Region: generate income. It is from better Henry Mutelo - 0967596475 farms that strong economies are build, level of 5 persons per family, it is go- send an e-mail to emmanuel. Southern: especially in many African countries ing to impact on 250 000 lives. But… [email protected]. Trans Munalula - 0966434370

where agriculture is their mainstay. “this is not going to be a one season Key Accounts: Bayer, Shaping the Future of farming Henry Mutelo - 0967596475

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Farmers Remain Food Secure Through Conservation Farming By Sally Mulambya know how on CF technology. input costs and increase profits to benefited from this program in “People need to adapt to the expand their area of production, so many ways that leaving is new way of farming and climate resulting in a massive change in impossible,” she boasted. vertime extreme smart agriculture is the only way farming family fortunes. Mrs. Zulu called on Conserva- weather condi- because climate change is real Grace Mumba Mwenda a benefi- tion Farming Unit to continue tions as a result we can all see the effects, those ciary of the conservation farming providing more knowledge to of climate change practicing CF have attested to program in com- farmers because it was cardinal have made farming major increase in yields and prof- mended CFU for the knowledge to the improvement of their a difficult undertaking. O its because their crops are able to and help rendered. livelihood. However, in an effort to reduce withstand the increasing climatic Mrs. Mwenda disclosed that con- CFU continues to work hard to further infliction of suffering and shocks being experienced,” he servation farming techniques had stimulate the demand for and hunger as a result of climatic explained. helped her earn high yields and supply of necessary tools, inputs conditions on agriculture a major Mr. Silwimba also disclosed that income despite climate change and services, through relation- source of income and livelihood CF methods had a high prob- which has negatively impacted ships with tillage service provid- for the majority Zambians. Gov- ability of retaining soil profiles agriculture activities across the ers and private input supplying ernment and various Organiza- and rebuilding valuable organic globe. companies at both national and tions are working tirelessly to carbon matter and harvesting “We no longer experience community levels. identify sustainable ways of water in the basins and rip lines, continuous rains as before, so Speaking in an interview Evans building community resilience thereby giving a better chance of conservation farming techniques Phiri, a Wholegoods Sales officer and adaptation. crop survival as they live up to a have been helpful, we now know from Afgri equipment, one of the The Conservation Farming Unit period of 2 weeks. how much seed to plant even in tillage service providers working in Zambia is among the institu- He Urged farmers to join free terms of fertilizer application we in collaboration with CFU, urged tions working towards this cause. conservation farming trainings no longer make loses because we farmers not to wait any longer CFU works to provide small and being conducted in various already know how many bags to and adopt CF because climate medium scale farmers with prac- districts and provinces under the use, if you compare our plant- change was a global situation tical and technical knowledge ministry of agriculture and exten- ing style to that of others using that needed urgent response. to help them successfully adopt sion officers. ordinary methods you can see “We have been working hand in smart agriculture practices such CFU predominantly focuses on that what they harvest far much hand with CFU to supply equip- as conservation farming (CF). A providing extension support and less,” she said. ment’s to the farmers so that they technology that has seen farmers practical training on CF and CA Violet Zulu is another beneficiary are able to help others in their over the years not only improved to farmers on the ground through who thanked CFU for the knowl- communities, so whenever they their crop harvests, but translated a team of field officers who Violet Zulu a farmer and beneficiary of CFU at the launch of the edge acquired, the mother of 2, have an event we are always in- in increased income generation engage lead farmers to work with planning season in Petauke District narrated that she joined CFU in vited to showcase our equipment and overall wellbeing. their communities. 2017 through camp officers that to the farmers,” he said. Even more CFU promotes Host farmer Paul Yengwe 39, brought her information. She He further advised farmers to methods that are environmentally learning about different farming seasons also disclosed that he has who received a tractor from explained that she has been able adopt CF and use equipment’s friendly, by being able to make techniques like ripping I decided managed to acquire a residential President Edgar Lungu from to construct a house and send her such rippers and tractors, to land that already seems exhaust- to change our way of farming plot in Petauke town. He urged chief Mwanjabanthu narrated children to school from her earn- conserve moisture in the soil to ed profitable again. and started ripping because of fellow farms to move away that he joined CFU 2017 he testi- ings generated from surplus crop. allow their grans germinate. Speaking at the launch of the the difference we noted, we are from old methods of farming fied that before joining CFU he “I have cultivated for two years In Zambia CFU is present in planting season in Petauke, CFU no longer affected in times of and adopt conservation Farming would only realize 29 bags from on a two hectare farm using over 40 districts and is gener- Eastern Province Regional Man- droughts because these rip lines methods. a one hectare but now reaps 90 knowledge from CFU, since I ously supported by Britain’S aging Officer, Ken Silwimba -re store water and the maize grains By training farmers how to bags. was introduced to them I have Department for International vealed that CFU was responsible still germinate,” he testified. practice CF they are given a “When I started farming I been able to purchase a plough Development. for giving farmers the technical Mr. Yengwe who has tried the CF capacity to improve their overall initially used cattle but after technology for the last 3 farming management practices, reduce and bought 4 cattle, I have

in 7 districts namely Kasama, Mavis Busiku, a farmer from “Furthermore, the impact assess- PUSH-PULL TECHNOLOGY: INNOVATIVE Mungwi, Chilanga, Chisamba, Chamuka Chiefdom was grateful ment found push–pull to be an Chipata, Chongwe and Lusaka for the training by ICIPE and To- environmentally friendly tech- TECHNIQUE TO FIGHT ARMY WORMS. through collaboration with Zam- tal Land Care Zambia as she has nology that is likely to increase bia Agriculture Research Station, seen how effective and beneficial agrobiodiversity and contribute By Zawela Lungu 10 per cent of Zambian farms in ral enemies. On the other hand, Kasisi Agriculture Training the technology can be. to provision of ecosystem ser- six provinces have already been Desmodium controls Striga weed Centre, Conservation Farm- “Over the past few years, our vices,” he added. illions of rural affected. through stimulating germination ing Unit and the University Of yields have been declining due to Today, the technology has over people across These constraints create the of Striga seed and further inhibi- Zambia School Of Agriculture,” the effects of climate change and 200 adopters in Zambia. How- sub-Saharan driver for farmers’ demand for tion of root to root attachment explained Kabita. army worms.I will definitely start ever, Lack of seeds for com- Africa in gen- alternative technologies. hence reducing the Striga seed “I encourage more farmers to practicing this technique with the panion crops still remains a big eral and eastern Various stakeholders have bank from the soil. take up this technology because hope of having better yields and challenge for farmers to practice MAfrica in particular base their come on board to come up with Desmodium also enriches the it has contributed significantly improving my living standards,” the technology in Zambia. livelihoods largely on maize and agricultural technologies to help soil with nitrogen and protects to reducing the vulnerability of added Mavis. sorghum, the principal food,as enhance the production of cereals the soil from erosion as it acts as farm families by ensuring higher Paul Malambo, Monitoring & The International Centre of well as cash crops in their mixed in Zambia. a cover crop. Both Desmodium and better yield stability,” added Evaluation Officer at Total Land- Insect Physiology and Ecol- crop-livestock farming systems. Total Landcare Zambia in part- and Napier constitute excellent Kabita. careexplained that the technology ogy’s (icipe) goal is to con- Zambian smallholder farmers in nership with Bio-vision Africa fodder for livestock (cattle, goats, The training which drew over had tremendous advantages to tinue scaling-up the adoption of particular have embraced these Kenya have come up with a rabbits, chicken and fish). 100 farmers from Chisamba the farming community in the push-pull, while addressing the crops for many years in differ- natural control method for fall Speaking during a farmer field aimed at imparting SMART agri- country. outstanding challenge of making ent regions for consumption at armyworms and other related school which was conducted culture knowledge to the farming “Push–pull is probably the single the inputs of the technology, in household level. insect pests. This technology is in Chisamba, Bio vision Africa community in the area. most effective and efficient low- particular desmodium seeds, Unfortunately, production of called the push- pull method. Outreach Manager Silvia Kabita Mr David Njobvu, a lead farmer cost technology for removing more accessible to farmers. This these cereals is severely affected The Push-Pull technology was says the technology which con- from Chikonkomene area of major constraints faced by the will involve community seed by stemborers, parasitic weed, developed to address cereal sists of planting maize and other Chisamba explained with pride majority of smallholder farm- production and distribution, as low and declining soil fertility, stemborers and a parasitic weed. cereal crops with a stem borer how the push pull technology has ers in the region, resulting in an well as partnerships with private and weaknesses in agricultural The technology consists in plant- moth-repellent legume called changed his life. overall and significant improve- sector companies to create viable extension delivery methods. ing maize or other cereal crops Desmodium was developed by “By selling our surplus grains, ment of their food security and commercial seed production Maize, Zambia’s primary staple with a stem borer moth-repellent The International Centre of Insect milk and fodder, my family and livelihoods”, emphasized Paul. systems. crop is under attack from fall legume, Desmodium. Napier Physiology and Ecology (icipe) I have been able to earn extra Paul further explained that the army worms. The fall army grass is then planted as border to address cereal stemborers and income, which we use to pay Push–pull technology was also worm is a migratory pest that trap plant for stem borers. When a parasitic weed called Striga. school fees for the children, pur- seen to contribute to national rapidly moves through fields eggs are laid on Napier grass or chase household items, improve food security, rural employment, eating young plant stems at light- Brachiaria, their hatchability is “The technology has undergone our housing and overall, nutrition as well as better education and ning speed, leaving devastation low and they are exposed to natu- validation for a period of 3 years and health,” said Njobvu. increased farming knowledge. in their wake. It is estimated that www.agricoopnewspaper.com Agricoop Newspaper 0955 791 676 Agricoopnews agricoopnews 16 AGRI-COOP NEWSPAPER, DECEMBER 2020 | VOLUME 140 AGRISOCIAL

A Simple ChristmasBeef Wellington

Chef Mulaye Mwendafilumba

Face book page: I think you stole my kitchen Blog: https://azambiankitchen.blogspot.com/

Cell number: 0979386584 Email address: [email protected]

Services offered: cooking classes for all ages, finger snacks, personal and outdoor catering and consultation.

Story Time

…”And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Farming is art babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a man- ogers heard the sound in the distance just as Mr. ger”… Luke 2:12 NKJV Mudenda and the police had all congregated upon his hearted. I have made the heated oiled pan till most score the top and place location. With a glance around he could see that they Servings: 4-6 people Agri-Coop Puzzle 048 Across hadDown heard it as well. Mr. Mudenda turned to the farm recipe shorter and simpler of the moisture1 evapo- 2 on3 4a greased tray.5 Bake Prep time: 20 min 1. Orange Tuberous Plant (6)security1. Hot officerBeverage (6)Steven and asked him to go and see to handle from the original rates. Season with salt 6 for 30 min or until3. Mortar &what ... (6) was happening.2. Aquatic The Mammal Police that(5) arrived at the scene were three Cooking time: 30 min 7. Foremost (5) 4. Choice Class (5) recipe. Give it a try. And to and pepper and7 cool. golden8 brown. R 8. Angry (5)in number. A lady5. and Builds two (6) gentlemen. Rogers recognized the inspec- Level of difficulty: medium 9 you my dear reader, Merry 2. Season the fillet with 7. Allow to rest once9. ready Eject (5) tor from last time6. when Corn (5)Jairos had been arrested. He hadn’t liked Christmas! salt and pepper.10 On high11 and12 slice.13 Serve with10.Devourer this(5) scenario at all.11.Surpass Rogers (5) wanted to speak to the farm manager who What a rollercoaster the heat, lightly oil a pan and your favourite sauce.12.Occurrence had (5) come to see 13.Creephim in private Plants (5) but it wouldn’t be possible unless he 14 15 14.Outspoken (5) 16.Mushroom Species (6) year has been. It’s that time INGREDIENTS heat up. Carefully sear 15.Men’s Toiletfound (5) a way to evade17.Reap Mr. Harvest Mudenda Remains and (5) the police. of the year when we reflect 500g beef fillet (brown) all sides.16 Set 17 18 18.Harvest (5) 18.Posture (6) and celebrate the birth of 19 20 Enjoy.21 21.Property (5)Suddenly their attention20.Measured was Drugs drawn Given elsewhere, (5) workers could be 500g button mushroom, aside to cool. 22 22.Kilns (5) 21.Donkeys (5) Jesus. Wrapping this pastry 23.Biblical Wseeneeds chasing(5) what looked like two men running through the Okra chopped 3. Preheat oven to23 200 de- 24 brought this passage to 500g puff pastry grees C; select bake. 24.Mushroomfields. Seed (5) Rogers started running towards the direction while holding the mind.The humility that Jesus 25.Rest (6) farm manager by hand. He was glad to see that Mr. Mudenda hadn’t Salt and pepper 4. On a clean surface,25 26 26.Shrewd (6) noticed this gesture. Hopefully, he would get some private conversa- came with may be strange Cooking oil lightly flour and roll out tion going before long so that he could gather factual information for for someone coming to save 2 eggs puff pastry enough to mankind. What does the the Boss. Puff pastry wrap the fillet. Rogers could hear the workers in the distance shouting ‘thief’. The birth of Jesus mean to you? 5. Spread the cooked mush- people they were chasing could be seen running very quickly to Christmas time is normally room on the pastry, place avoid capture. Rogers was hopeful that these were the same thieves family time and this meal METHOD fillet in the centre and that were stealing the tools and that if they were caught, this situa- will be a showstopper and 1. Chop mushrooms and wrap. Cut of excess. tion would die down. He occasionally turned to see Mr. Mudenda at definitely not for the faint cook on a medium high 6. Brush with beaten egg, a distance motioning, Steven, he did so because he wanted a quick report. He decided this was the best time to talk to the farm manager who came. He was informed that his name was Reuben.

Reuben told him even more bad news. The tool that Jairos had brought him was a stolen tool from Reuben’s farm. And that they Agri-Coop Puzzle 048 Across Down Solution to Anagram Puzzle 047 1 2 3 4 5 1. Orange Tuberous Plant (6) 1. Hot Beverage (6) 1 2 3 4 5 had filed a report with the police. 6 C A L L E R C A T T L E 3. Mortar & ... (6) 2. Aquatic Mammal (5) 6 7 8 7. Foremost (5) 4. Choice Class (5) A N C G A 7 8 Rogers remembered asking the workers if anyone had known who 9 8. Angry (5) 5. Builds (6) S W E E T R R O O S T 9 the owner of the tool was. Unfortunately, Jairos who was able to col- 9. Eject (5) 6. Corn (5) T E 10 11 12 13 E D U C E 10.Devourer (5) 11.Surpass (5) 10 11 12 13 laborate that story was in prison. This wasn’t looking good for Rog- 12.Occurrence (5) 13.Creep Plants (5) L A D E R D E A G E R ers. He thought if how he would blame it on Jairos who had brought E R E G S 14 15 14.Outspoken (5) 16.Mushroom Species (6) 14 15 him the tool, however, if Jairos refused and was somehow involved 15.Men’s Toilet (5) 17.Reap Harvest Remains (5) S L A I N C A R E D 16 17 18 18.Harvest (5) 18.Posture (6) 16 17 18 in this whole ordeal then it would be hard to prove. Rogers had lost A S L I A 19 20 21 21.Property (5) 20.Measured Drugs Given (5) 19 20 21 hope. He sat down unconcerned with the shouts in the distance. He S T E E R A A C H E S 22 22.Kilns (5) 21.Donkeys (5) 22 thought about his job and the whole situation, it was a lose-lose 23.Biblical Weeds (5) C O A T H S P 23 24 23 24 scenario. If Mr. Mudenda hadn’t fired him then the police would get 24.Mushroom Seed (5) E A R N S E S A L V E 25.Rest (6) him. There was so much confusion. He wondered how the tool from N E R E C 25 26 26.Shrewd (6) 25 26 the other farm ended up on his farm, he now seriously hoped that the D E P O S E S T R E E T people being chased had all the answers. He saw an inspector come towards him. He was then told that he was being taken to the police station for questioning.

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Solution to Anagram Puzzle 047 1 2 3 4 5 C A L L E R C A T T L E 6 A N C G A 7 8 S W E E T R R O O S T 9 T E D U C E E 10 11 12 13 L A D E R D E A G E R E R E G S 14 15 S L A I N C A R E D 16 17 18 A S L I A 19 20 21 S T E E R A A C H E S 22 C O A T H S P 23 24 E A R N S E S A L V E N E R E C 25 26 D E P O S E S T R E E T AGRI-COOP NEWSPAPER, DECEMBER 2020 | VOLUME 140 17 Health & Welness How to Use Soursop To Ask lulu LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR MORE HEALTH TIPS AND HOME REMEDIES Treat Cancer fb: Health and wellness Lets Debate this Cell: 0954 815 504 Topic: Should farmers in the diversification effort mass-produce ducks (1000 Times instead of chickens?

Chisha: I believe mass production of ducks would be very instrumental in the diversification process because ducks are not disease-prone. This Stronger than would enable guaranteed returns for poultry farmers who would have only minimum losses if any.

Bernard: I believe mass production of chickens would be the better al- Chemo) ternative. Since much has been put in place for such a commodity in our communities. As you know a restaurant without chicken isn’t a restau- How_to_Make_Soursop_Tea rant at all. Directions: Chisha: Mass production of chickens has outgrown its use. A lot of re- Boil 1 liter of water, then take 15 soursop dry leaves (fresh or dried ones both have same value) and 1 search shows that most people in urban areas prefer rare foods such as small stem, cut into small pieces and put into the boiling water. Fresh green tea with tea leaves in the water fish instead. Mass production of ducks would not be a tough idea to sell Don’t close the vessel and Continue to boil the water on small flame for 30 mins,until the water evapo- to farmers. You get more relish from a duck than you get from a chicken. rates to 500 ml . Ducks are not disease-prone making them the best option. Now the soursop tea is ready to drink. Drink 1 cup (165ml) filtered soursop tea hot or warm or cool 3 times every day, in the morning, afternoon and in the night. Bernard: Mass production of ducks requires more complicated environ- For better taste you can add 1/2 spoon of lime juice, 2 pudina leafs and add some honey (not sugar). After drinking, the body may feel the effects of heat, but no side effects.To cool the body, drink 3 ments for breeding than it is for chickens. In most cases, water ponds are glasses of fresh watermelon juice and drink 3 glasses of goats’ milk every day. In 2 weeks time you can needed. That would be more money in spending just to start. Chickens are feel the benefits of soursop yourself, and in 4 weeks time the improvements can be felt clearly. easier to start for most and I would therefore advise that better manage- ment systems are introduced in chicken production. Note: Drink soursop tea 30 minutes before eating. Chisha: Duck production would bring much-needed profit and also con- Graviola (soursop) is used to treat infections caused by bacteria and parasites including leishmaniasis, tribute to the GDP of the country. a disease caused by parasites transmitted through the bite of sand fleas; herpes; coughs; and cancer, ac- cording to WebMD. It is also used to cause vomiting and to empty the bowels. Some people use graviola to help them relax. Bernard: I don’t think it would make much difference at all. Though I admit that ducks not been prone to diseases is advantageous. #Cancer_Prevention The leaves of the graviola tree have powerful anti-cancer properties coming from phytochemicals in the plant. The journal “Cancer Letters” published a study looking at the impact of graviola on pancreatic cancer. Supplementing with graviola stopped cancerous pancreatic tumor cells from replicating and caused them to die. Researchers suggest this natural medicine may prevent and treat cancer. The leaves may also be useful for treating skin cancer when applied topically.

#Treating_Viral_Infections Traditional medicines use graviola leaves as treatment for viral infections. An article published in “The Journal of Ethnopharmacology” in May of 1998 found that extracts from the leaves suppressed the her- pes simplex virus. The herpes virus is spread through bodily fluids and often transmitted while kissing or through sexual contact. According the University of Maryland Medical Center, up to 90 percent of the U.S. population has been exposed to one form of the virus and there is no cure. Some anti-viral medications can reduce the num- ber of outbreaks or lessen symptoms. More research is needed to determine what role graviola can play in the treatment or prevention of herpes.

#Pain_Reduction Supplementing with graviola leaves may reduce swelling and pain, according to a study published in May of 2010 in the “International Journal of Molecular Sciences.” Researchers gave mice with burned paws extracts of graviola leaf and observed their behaviors. Those given the supplement had less swell- ing and demonstrated fewer indications of pain. However, more research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of this use in humans.

#Dosing The appropriate dose of graviola depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for graviola. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using. #Possible_Side_Effects

DO NOT EAT TOO MUCH OF THE FRUIT: Eating the fruit too much #could lead to movement disorders similar to Parkinson’s disease, according to a case-control study in the French West Indies. No established human dosage for graviola leaf exists yet. Long-term or high-dose supplementation may cause damage to the myelin sheath, disrupting normal nerve function. Movement disorders may also occur because of compounds called alkaloids present in the plant. Symptoms of these conditions are similar to those of Parkinson’s disease. Talk with a doctor prior to taking a graviola leaf supplement or making/drinking soursop tea.

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By Sally Mulambya In order to lessen the occurrence owpeas are a major of the fungal diseases like scab source of proteins Ascochyta especially in high rainfall areas of Zambia, growing Growing Cowpeas and vitamins both for humans and as of early maturing varieties can feed for animals as also be as late as January while well as a good source of income. sowing of later indeterminate C types can vary from November to This crop is also excellent for fattening cattle and especially mid December. good for milking cows. Land Preparation In terms of retaining soil nutri- Once a farmer is ready to plant ents cowpeas play a good role they need to first start by clearing in providing soil with nitrogen their field, one can plough or rip through the nodules on their the land depending on their pref- roots which is especially good erence, harrowing should then for maize, millet and sorghum follow to provide sufficient soil when grown in rotation especial- texture for good root growth. ly in areas with poor soil fertility. You can then decide to plant on a Cowpeas require a growing sea- flat land or ridges. son of 70-130 days but usually A good site when it comes to this is dependent on the variety, growing cowpeas especially the time of sowing should relate for seed is very important, this to the need to harvest the seed in entails sandy loam soils with a the dry season. Ph between 6 and 7. The crop is tolerant to drought conditions and well adapted to Planting sandy and poor soils, Smallhold- According to Mrs. Siwale a er Farmers in agro-ecological Forage seed farmer, the time of zones of Zambia could take sowing seed should relate to the Mrs Mercy Siwale need to harvest the seed. advantage. Fertilizer Application Weed your cowpeas at least 2 cowpeas because damage caused Cowpeas come in different Spacing of rows of cowpeas Cowpea is one crop that does not weeks after planting and sec- by insects can be as high as Harvesting varieties therefore, its’ important should be from 50-90 cm apart. need too much nitrogen fertilizer ondly at 4 weeks after planting 80-100 percent if not effectively Cowpeas can be harvested when to choose a variety which can The recommended spacing for because it fixes its own nitrogen to ensure a clean field, always controlled she advices farmers crops and pods are fully mature do well in your agro-ecological semi-erect varieties is 75cm from the air through its nodules remember that poor weed control to seek help from ministry of and dry, in early maturing erect zone, ones choice needs to be by 30cm while for prostate in the roots. or delay in weeding causes a agriculture extension officers to varieties, one picking is suffi- based on maturity period, yield varieties one can plant at a But for one that needs to boost drastic reduction in yields and develop a spraying program and cient, upon harvesting the farmer potential drought and pests/ spacing of 75cm by 50 cm cowpeas growth at its early stage your crops may fail to qualify as get advice on suitable insecti- can thresh the pods by beating disease tolerance. apart Sow seeds at a depth of either at planting or germination a seed crop because weeds bring cides to use. them gently using a mechanical Zambia has the following 2.5 to 5cm planting seeds more applying compound D fertilizer about competition fro nutrients Late maturing varieties however means like stick then clean the varieties, Bubebe, Lutembwe, t h a n 5 c m c a n d e l a y e m e r g e n c e is recommended but only in with your crop. require more sprays than early seeds and separate them from Msandile, Namuseba and Mtilizi small quantities. According to Mrs. Siwale pest maturing varieties because of chaff through winnowing. and most of these mature within Caring For Your Cowpeas control is very important in staggered flowers. 60-80 days.

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Tips For Producing High Quality Natural And Organic Honey

roducing a differenti- ment free from, or with restricted to antibiotics while non-use of such as wood, metal or clay. denoting certified organic ated product can aid use of synthetic substances such synthetic chemicals minimises All parts and supporting status, certifying authority, the marketing and as chemical fertilizers, pesticides, harm to the environment thus structures of the hive must certificate number together enhance profitabil- herbicides and antibiotics, and enhancing sustainability. be made of untreated ma- with other honey labelling ity of the particular processing excludes the use of In order to produce a compliant terials. Plastic can be used requirements should be pro- Pproduct. This article looks at industrial solvents, irradiation or product and obtain certification provided it is covered with vided on label. Honey in an how producing honey labelled genetic engineered processes. for organic honey, the following organic beeswax. organic labelled jar should Mr Mumba Ai as Natural or organic can boost Although obtaining Organic general standards must be met: 3. Origin of honeybees and be traceable to the apiary it A practising beekeeper sales and substantially increase certification is not an easy under- 1. Apiary Location And For- queens- Bees can come was produced from. and Director of Training profitability. taking due to the costs involved age - Area Apiaries should from organic or non-organic 8. Record keeping and at Al-Apis Concepts Ltd Most of the honey produced and the rather complex process, be sited 3 – 5 km away from apiaries. Queen can be transitional period - Tran- in this country qualifies to be replaced when- sitional period for shifting labelled as Natural Honey. By ever required. from conventional honey definition, natural honey is honey it should be pointed out that Queen wing production to organic is 12 whose all ingredients are natural clipping is months. Non organic wax products and which has been forbidden. should be replaced with minimally processed. Minimal obtaining organic certifica- 4. Feed for Or- organic wax during this processing in this case is defined ganic Honey- period. Apiary should have as processing in a way that does bees - Artificial records of being organic for not fundamentally alter the tion is not an impossibility. feeding is one year. product. Excessive heating or accepted only 9. Export shipments - A pasteurisation and filtering below when it is dif- sample from each con- 200 microns is prohibited. Non ficult to provide signment shall be held for natural products refer to artificial it offers a number of benefits non-organic plant sources. access to organic foraging the duration of the “Best- Ingredients or synthetic additives to the beekeeper who succeeds This means hives should to bees. When non-organic Before”period. including colouring, flavours and in obtaining such certification. be in a centre of minimally feed is used, the apiary preservatives. Besides the aspect of increased 16 square miles or 25 square should be removed from In conclusion, it should be Organic honey, on the other prices and marketability of kilometres radius of organic organic honey production. pointed out that obtaining hand, can be defined as honey organic labelled honey resulting plants. This area should not 5. Disease and Pest Control organic certification is not an which is produced, processed from the quality assurance to include non-organic farms, Chemical and antibiotic impossibility. and packaged in accordance buyers, other benefits include the residential neighbour- treatment is prohibited. Em- with specific organic standards positive impact on public health hoods, industrial areas, ma- phasis is placed on preven- and guidelines and certified as and environmental sustainability. jor highways, golf courses, tative methods of control. such. Standards vary worldwide, Restricted use of antibiotics in sludge or sewage and waste Some milder miticide however, the general requirement treating honeybee diseases mini- water treatment plants and treatments- those consid- is the production inan environ- mises risks of bacterial resistance genetically modified crops. ered natural- are accepted. This information is brought to This requirement alone Examples include acetic you in the community service of makes the production of or oxalic acid, formic acid, Al – Apis Concepts Ltd. organic honey impossible caustic soda and sulphur for most producers in indus- etheric oils. For your questions and clarifica- trialised countries, thereby 6. Honey processing - Surfac- tions from this feature, contact presenting opportunities to es that come in contact with the author on 0967 419 551/0954 producers in third world honey in processing should 186 973. Email: apisconcepts@ countries like Zambia where be of food grade material or gmail.com. For all your beekeep- many places can meet this should be coated with bees- ing requirements contact Al-Apis requirement. wax. Overheating and over Concepts Ltd. Phone: +260 966 2. Hive type - Hives should filtering is not allowed 474757 be made of natural material 7. Labelling - Signage Chilanga and Kafue smallholder Farmers to Increase Incomes

By Josiah Mpofu Mr. Mwale explained that the ‘Enhancing of agricultural exten- project will further upscale the sion officers capacity will be he Ministry of growing of nutritious foods a plus in boosting agricultural Agriculture and through a diversified approach production in the two districts as the Japan Interna- thereby leading to improved they play a big role in ensuring tional Cooperation household food and nutrition that the project is successfully Agency (JICA) have security as well as increased implemented for the good of the Tsigned the Zambia-Marumori household incomes. communities, who are the recipi- Rural Community Development “Up scaling of growing of nutri- ent of the project,” Mr. Mwale Project through Market Oriented tious foods through a diversified said. Farming. approach will be key as this will And JICA Chief Representative AGRIRITE ENTERPRISES During the signing in Cer- improve not only the household Tokuhashi Kazuhiko said the Its Rain Season Again! emony in Lusaka, Director in the food security but the nutritional initiative is aimed at promoting Ministry of Agriculture MOSES security and help households various agricultural innovations MWALE said the project will market the excess crops resulting that will empower more small help improve farmers’ productiv- in increased household incomes,” scale farmers. ity through the adoption of Maru- Mr. Mwale said. The Zambia Marumori Ru- mori’s traditional agricultural Mr. Mwale emphasized that the ral Community Development technologies such as processing, programme will help many small project which is currently being preservation and Market survey- scale farmers in Chilanga and implemented in Chilanga and Polyester Cotton ing. who are usually Kafue district of Lusaka province “The Zambia-Marumori Rural Rain Gear Rain Coat faced with various challenges is aimed at improving liveli- Community Development Project such as climate change, low hoods for small scale farmers through Market Oriented agricul- production and productivity, poor through Marumori’s traditional ture offers a platform to not only White-Combed Sack Sewing Machine management of farming, low agricultural technologies thereby Cotton improve our farmers production incomes and limited resources. enabling them to have improved and productivity but brings in He urged agricultural exten- food security and nutrition as Plot No: 7246 Sunrise House off Lumba road, Marumori traditional agricultural sion officers in the two districts well as providing better markets Corner of Mukatasha and Kachidza technologies which will improve to work very hard in ensuring for their agricultural products. production, processing, preserva- Cell: 0955 784 766, 0979 491962 Safety Shoes Work Suits that the project is effectively Email: [email protected] tion and marketing survey,” Mr. implemented for the good of the Mwale said. intended beneficiaries.

www.agricoopnewspaper.com Agricoop Newspaper 0955 791 676 Agricoopnews agricoopnews 20 AGRI-COOP NEWSPAPER, DECEMBER 2020 | VOLUME 140 K10 AGRI -COOP Farmers News, all Seasons. JICA Empowers Rice Farmers be on the ground to monitor and guide since done their nurseries for the farmers to ensure the points given transplanting into the main fields. during the training are followed and put to good use. 149 out of the 155 participantshave

Training And Demonstration On Rice Line Planting In Maheba, , In North Western Province. Picture By Paul Mwansa. ing farmers are those who are Meheba Resettlement Scheme. as opposed to broadcast- By Alice Nyirenda already rice growers and have The farmers were given a hands- ing which has been the basic knowledge in rice produc- on training for a period of five trend in the Dambos. n a bid to helping farmers tion and have been growing rice days by the Zambia Agriculture Master Trainer Simbar- improve rice production, traditionally in lowland referred Research Institute (ZARI), work- ashe Mubambwe urged the Japanese International to as Dambos. ing in collaboration with Market the farmers to be proactive Development Agency The selected farmers are mem- Oriented Development Project and ensure that they adopt (JICA) has empowered bers of the refugee community (MOTDP). the improved agronomical farmers in Kalumbila district of I of Meheba H, Meheba D and They were divided into 30 practices for them to see North Western Province with Meheba G, mostly from Burundi, participants per day in order to improved yields. 750kg of SUPA MG paddy rice. Rwanda and Democratic Re- adhere to the health guidelines Mr. Mubambwe said field 155 farmers were selected to public of Congo (DRC). Some pertaining to the COVID 19 Pan- officers from the Ministry benefit from the Project that is other beneficiaries are Locally demic and learnt improved prac- of Agriculture who are in- being implemented in Meheba Integrated Zambians living in tices which include line planting volved in the project will Refugee Camp. The benefit-

Fert Seed & Grain Ltd

MONO AMMONIUM PHOSPHATE (MAP-11 N:52P) SuperFert Mono Ammonium Phosphate is a perfect basal dressing fertilizer that is rich in phosphorous (52%P) and nitrogen (11 % N) to support young plants and promote quick root formation. Improved nitrogen levels also support chlorophyll and photosynthesis in young plants, at the critical stage when its genetic potential is established. Nutrient requirements vary at different stages of plant development, which is why applying the correct fertilizer at the right time will improve your yield, thereby providing the needed food security at household level.

At Fertilizer, Seed & Grain Ltd, we encourage feedback from our farmers so that they can share their experience with our SuperFert fertilizer blends. We wish to thank all our esteemed customers within and outside Zambia for trusting SuperFert as their preferred fertilizer of choice.

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