Kaoma launches Presidential Irrigation Initiative Programme
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Top StoriesKaoma Secondary School has launched the pilot Presidential Irrigation Initiative Programme in Kaoma District in Western Province, a key component of the Grow Zambia Agenda aimed at enhancing national food security. The launch marks the beginning of a programme that will see…
Kaoma Secondary School has launched the pilot Presidential Irrigation Initiative Programme in Kaoma District in Western Province, a key component of the Grow Zambia Agenda aimed at enhancing national food security.
The launch marks the beginning of a programme that will see five schools in Kaoma district each cultivate one hectare of maize.
This is part of 35 schools selected across Western Province to participate in the initiative, which is aligned with President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to produce 10 million metric tons of maize by 2030.
Officiating at the launch held at Kaoma Secondary School, Kaoma District Commissioner, Kashina Sheba described the initiative as a game changer for both education and agriculture.
Mrs Sheba said the programme will transform schools into centres of agricultural production and climate-resilient learning, while also equipping learners with practical farming skills.
She however expressed disappointment over reports that some schools in other parts of the country had abused agricultural inputs given to them under similar programmes.
“I was disappointed to learn that some schools abused the inputs. I pray that nothing of that nature happens in Kaoma,” Mrs Sheba said.
She added that the project will provide an alternative livelihood pathway for learners who may not excel academically, enabling them to venture into agriculture to sustain their livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Kaoma District Education Board Secretary, Dickson Pola said the programme will significantly boost the schools’ feeding programme and ensure learners are well-nourished.
Mr Pola said the initiative is also in line with the new competency and performance-based curriculum which emphasizes practical skills and entrepreneurship.
And Senior Education Officer, Foster Mwanza advised learners not to view the programme as punishment, but as a patriotic contribution to the national food basket.
He said through irrigation farming, schools will be cushioned against erratic rainfall while inculcating a culture of hard work among learners.
And Kaoma Secondary School Head Girl, Tricia Kampapa commended President Hakainde Hichilema for the life changing initiative and assured the government of pupils’ commitment to taking care of the maize field.
The one-hectare per school model is expected to contribute to household and national food security while promoting self-reliance in schools.
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