CEEC procures a milling plant for Chavuma district
The Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) has procured a maize milling plant from SARO AGRO valued at about two million kwacha for cooperatives in Chavuma district in North Western Province.
Minister Small and Medium Enterprise Development Elias Mubanga said government wants to support small scale farmers especially in areas of irrigation in order to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Mr Mubanga stated that people in rural areas are often subjected to walking long distances to access hammer mills.
Mr Mubanga emphasized that various initiatives are being put in place by his Ministry to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability by supporting farmers.
He added that the initiatives will also promote economic development in the agricultural sector by empowering the farmers.
The milling plant will service three districts namely Chavuma, Zambezi and
Kabompo districts.
He has urged other cooperating partners in the agro manufacturing industries to come on board and partner with CEEC in areas surrounding irrigation and mechanization equipment in rural areas in order to enhance food security.
At the same occasion CEEC Director General Charles Mungule said the initiative is aimed at promoting value addition for cooperatives and to support economic empowerment efforts in the region.
Dr Mungule indicated that the hammer mill will benefit over 35000 people who travel long distance to access milling facilities.
He stated that the commission also plans to distribute small hammer mills to other districts latter this year.
Dr Mungule has since urged would be recipients to use the equipment prudently.
The milling plant has the capacity to produce over 10, 000 tons of mealie meal per day.