CSPR asks govt to intensify support to maize growers

The Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) has appealed to Government to put measures in place aimed at supporting other crop growers in the country other than those growing maize.

CSPR Executive Director Patrick Nshindano says there is need for government not only to concentrate on maize farmers, but also link other crop growers to the industry not only within the country but also to the export market.

Mr Nshindano notes that the country can only diversify and stop relying on maize when other farmers growing crops such as cotton, cassava, groundnuts and other high value crops are motivated and supported as much as maize growers are supported.

He adds that for a long time, cotton farmers have been crying over the low floor prices they have been offered and access to markets.

Mr Nshindano says cotton farmers deserve to be given the attention because they have the potential to contribute to the economic growth of the nation especially in the advent of the climate change.

And Mr. Nshindano has appealed to the government to ensure farmers selling their maize to the Food Reserve Agency are paid on time.
He says this will help in motivating the farmers.