Many positive statements have been said about the Agritech Expo forum is strengthening its position as the biggest
agriculture outdoor event in the country.It is started like a dream in 2014, is now offering the best business to technology platforms by bringing together all players in the agriculture industry.
The expo is a new phenomenon being pioneered by the
Zambia National Farmers Unions (ZNFU) in collaboration with Golden Valley Agriculture Research Trust (GART) and is organised by Spintelligent of South Africa, with the aim of exposing more local farmers to mechanisation and new technologies.
Four years ago, ZNFU set out on a mission that would help lift the farmer from using hoe-in-hand technology, which is labourious, less productive, to one that will embrace modern agricultural technologies and trigger increased productivity.Minister of Agriculture Michael Katambo said usage of hoes for cultivation should be relegated to museums and the process of mechanisation should be turned into reality.
“Agritech Expo has challenged us as Government that we should start holding your hands as farmers to help you,” he said.From humble beginnings, sitting on just above 30,000 square metres of exhibition space, the Agritech Expo has expanded to 70,000 square metres of land, increased foreign pavilions, and local and international exhibitors, and an overwhelming visitor turnout.
ZNFU acting executive director Ellah Chembe said the increased presence of foreign exhibitors and visitors presents an opportunity for farmers, agro-dealers, machinists, agro-technologists and other vendors to learn the best and smart agricultural practices.
The Government will continue engaging stakeholders to find sustainable and beneficial solutions for farmers and other players in the value chain.With seven international pavilions, the Agritech Expo seems to be at the centre of an exciting Zambian agriculture market that needs to be explored.
Platforms are needed such as the Agritech Expo, with technologies on display,if the agriculture sector is to reach the much-aspired levels of attaining food security and meaningful income for the farmers.
