By Cecilia Chiluba 
Western Province Permanent Secretary has encouraged farmers to grow drought-resilient crops, diversify production, and embrace modern technologies to adapt to climate risks.
Simomo Akapelwa outlined a series of government interventions targeting climate resilience and improved agricultural productivity.
Mr. Akapelwa said the government is prioritizing drought-resistant crop varieties, water conservation techniques, and training on climate-smart agricultural practices.
He was speaking during the official opening of the 2025 Western Province Agricultural and Commercial Show in Mongu,on behalf of Provincial Minister, Kapelwa Mbangweta.
The Show was held under the theme; “Adapting to Climate Change.”
Mr. Akapelwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building resilience in agriculture and ensuring food security through climate-smart initiatives.
“Western Province has benefitted from better rainfall distribution this season, resulting in improved harvests,” Mr. Akapelwa said.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to control pests such as the fall armyworm and locusts, strengthen farmer field schools, and enhance conservation farming.
Mr. Akapelwa further announced progress in irrigation and mechanization programmes under the Zambia Growth Opportunities Programme (ZAMGROW) and the Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF), which he said were critical to achieving year-round food production.
“The government has also provided 37,684 input packs under FISP, and we are appealing to farmers to contribute to national food security by selling their produce to the Food Reserve Agency,” he stated.
He also cited government investments in livestock and fisheries, including fish cage installations in Senanga, the construction of a provincial veterinary laboratory, and mass cattle vaccinations against major animal diseases, as part of efforts to transform livestock farming into a thriving business.
And Western Province Show Society Chairperson, Joseph Mungandi described the event as a rallying point for collective action against climate change threats.
“Climate change is not a distant threat, it is here and now, affecting our rains, soils, and livelihoods,” he noted.
Mr. Mungandi applauded stakeholders for their support and participation in this year’s exhibition, stating that their involvement demonstrated the unity and cooperation needed to tackle climate challenges.
“We must move from talking about change to becoming the change. From renewable energy and sustainable agribusiness to eco-tourism and green jobs, climate challenges can become business opportunities,” Mr. Mungandi added.
He called for greater investment in technologies that conserve water, improve soil health, and increase farmers’ resilience, while promoting youth and women’s leadership in the agricultural sector.
This is according to a statement issued by Western Province, Principal Public Relations Officer, Mwakoi Njekwa.
News Desk 
Joseph Tembo