BY MERCY MADZIAKAOLA*
Peacock Seed Company on Saturday donated hybrid maize seeds worth K1.6 million to farmers in Salima to enable them engage in small scale irrigation and intercropping farming.
The donation, which was part-funded by Member of Parliament for Salima Central, Felix Jumbe, was made as one way of easing hunger problems that has hit many parts of the district.
Speaking after the donation, managing director for Peacock Seed Company, Lengson Maliwa, advised farmers to plant drought resistant crops so that they can cushion themselves against hunger.
“Peacock Seed Company was concerned with drought that has hit Salima, hence our decision to assist with the little we have.
“Using the seed we have donated, farmers can harvest minimum of 12 metric tonnes of maize per hectare. I would also like to advise farmers not to rely on rainfall alone, they should practice irrigation farming and intercropping,” said Maliwa.
The donation was made to three area development committees in the areas of Traditional Authority Maganga and senior chiefs Kalonga and Kuluunda in Salima.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries, Group Village Head Nawanga said the donation had come at the right time as it would help mitigate the drought’s effects.
“We are very grateful to Peacock Seed Company for this timely donation. However, we are urging other well-wishers to come forward and assist us with fertiliser because the drought has left us with nothing,” he said.
