Locust outbreak in Zambezi monitored (Agri Monitor)

The newly appointed deputy minister of agriculture, fisheries, water, and land reform, Ruth Masake, recently conducted a regional familiarisation tour in the Zambezi Region to assess and address the ongoing locust outbreak.

During her visit, she paid a courtesy call to the governor Lawrence Sampofu, who provided a comprehensive overview of the situation in the region. The governor highlighted several key concerns, including water challenges that the ministry could address moving forward.

Masake met with the ministry’s staff and farmers. She underscored the importance of unity and collaboration among the staff, urging them to work cohesively as one team to ensure the delivery of quality services to the public. She encouraged the staff to report any challenges that may impede their ability to provide effective service through the established reporting channels, thereby promoting a smooth and efficient operational process.

Masake concluded her visit with a tour with the locust spraying team in several affected areas, including Old Maskotwane and the Linyanti constituency. During this visit, she met with the Constituency Councillor and the headman, who raised concerns regarding the need for the rehabilitation of boreholes in the area.

Masake also visited the dilapidated Linyanti Agricultural Development Centre (ADC), where she directed the regional staff to initiate the rehabilitation process. She further called for the immediate filling of the vacant agricultural technician position to ensure the office provides the required effective service to the public and provide the necessary support.