Adopt land conservation practices, farmers told

M’Mbelwa District Council director of agriculture, environment and natural resources Beatrice Mbakaya has appealed to farmers to embrace land conservation practices to ensure food security.

Speaking at Chasato Community Ground during the launch of Integrated Catchment Management for Enhanced Climate Resilience, Food and Nutrition Security campaign, she said it is not too late for farmers to start adopting land conservation strategies.

Said Mbakaya: “We lose 29 metric tonnes of soil per hectare through erosion every year.

“Therefore, there is a need to work together to preserve land resources through reforestation and using organic fertilisers to improve productivity.”

She said some of the technologies farmers can adopt, including making swales, infiltration pits, manure, backyard gardens andreforestation.

Inkosi Kampingo Sibande said there is need to protect natural forests and plant trees in bare land.

“Communities should be committed to saving the environment through all means, including enacting environmentally friendly by-laws,” he said.

The chief said he will set an example for his people by being in the fore front in conserving the environment through constructing swales and infiltration pits.

M’Mbelwa District Council chairperson Morgan Tembo emphasised the importance of adopting recommended livestock, farming and soil conservation techniques.

“The district has dedicated extension workers who work tirelessly inensuring that farmers are aware of the benefits of following their recommended expertise,” he said.