E-SAFF CALLS FOR NON-STATE ACTORS INCREASED COLLABORATION TO BOOST AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION
By HAPPY MULOLANI
Zambia has achieved remarkable strides in the agriculture sector from 6.9 percent in 2019 to 7.9 percent in 2020-2021.
A Consultant on Regional Integration from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Shadreck Saili, cited the operationalisation of the Southern Africa Development Community’s Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) which is in tandem with the Eighth National Development (8NDP), as a unique model which has contributed to attaining some of the achievements as indicated in the third quarter report in 2023.
Speaking during a stakeholders meetings on Enhancing the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Regional National Linkages (SRNL) strengthening Partnerships between SADC NSA Platform, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and SADC Parliamentary Forum in Lusaka, Dr. Saili explained that the RISDP is a 10 year strategic plan or regional development framework or strategy.
This represents SADC ambitious attempt towards the SADC vision over over the next few years until 2050.
The 8NDP has pillars which speaks to economic activities which included an industrialised and diversified economy, enhanced citizenry participation in the economy and competitive private sector.
These are the outcomes agreed upon in the 8NDP and a progress reports are submitted on a quarterly basis.
Dr. Saili explained that RISDP is implemented through the National Coordinating Committee (NDCC) through cluster advisor groups (CAGS).
The implements the RISDP which basically are line ministries together with civil society, private sector and other development partners.
Dr. Saili indicated that the third quarter report states that 21 climate smart resilient varieties developed, released and commercialised by the Zambia Agriculture Research Station (ZARI).
“Some of the other milestones achieved include, 19 drought resilient crop varieties developed, four value chains established, five aquaparks completed and operationalised,” Dr. Saili stated.
And Zambia Alliance For Agroecology & Biodiversity (ZAAB) National Coordinator Mutinta Nketani added that it is key to develop and protect farmers seed systems which should ultimately translate to seed sovereignty.
Cross Border Association of Zambia Representative Jacob Makambwe says there is need for non-state actors to have a much more coordinated approach to engage at all levels in 2024.
“Some Non-State actors did not have the capacity and information on the structure of engagement were not very clear. Now that, there is clarity on the premise engagement process, it’s incumbent upon non-state actors to engage State actors,” Mr. Makambwe said.
Southern Africa Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) Member of Parliament Jeff Murebwa explained that the SADC PF is impressed with the collaboration of stakeholders in contributing to the development agenda of the country.
“There is need to develop domestic funds to enhance the capacity of the SADC PF, track outlined activities as well as improve communication and speak with one voice,” Mr. Murebwa said.
Mr. Murebwa stated that there is need to support farmers to have appropriate infrastructure through market integration and ensure production capacities are upscaled.
Mr. Murebwa called for all Non-State actors to actively engage on pertinent issues of development of the country across all sectors.- NAIS
