State releases K50m for farmers

GOVERNMENT yesterday released another K50 million to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA)to pay farmers who have not yet been paid.
Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Wylbur Simuusa, who confirmed the development in an interview in Lusaka yesterday,
said the money will be used to pay farmers in Chipata, Chinsali and Choma districts.
“I am happy to announce that Government has again released K50 million to pay farmers in Chipata, Chinsali and Choma.
“Last week, we released K250 million to pay our farmers who supplied maize to FRA and I am happy to mention that the payment to farmers is ongoing,” Mr Simuusa said.
He said his ministry is happy that Government has continued to release money in tranches.
Mr Simuusa assured the farmers who have not yet been paid not to panic because Government is doing everything possible to pay them before the end of this month.
He said Government has decided to speed up the release of funds to FRA to clear off the farmers.
Mr Simuusa said Government is working hard and that it will ensure all the farmers are paid before the planting season is in full gear.
The minister has since appealed to farmers to stop protesting but instead wait for Government to address their concerns.

Zambia Daily Mail