Govt comissions new storage shed #zambia

THE Government has commissioned the first storage shed
under the Food Reserve Agency (FRA)'s 27 slabs upgrade
project with an assurance of its commitment to developing
agricultural storage infrastructure countrywide.
Agriculture and Livestock Minister Wylbur Simuusa, who
commissioned the upgraded hard standing slab at Chingola
FRA main depot on Wednesday said the Government had set
focus on upgrading storage infrastructure countrywide
through a five-year investment plan.
Mr Simuusa said to address the perennial crop wastage
through spoilage from elements of the weather, thefts and
improper storage, Government through FRA was upgrading
storage infrastructure countrywide.
The minister who cited the commissioned 5,000 tonnes
capacity shed at Chingola main deport said it was for that
reason that Government had seen it fundamental to include
developing suitable agricultural storage facilities.
He said the project had to be done because Government had
identified agriculture, as one sector that could contribute
significantly to the country's economy.
Mr Simuusa said other sheds under the project would soon
be completed in Masaiti, Mpongwe, Mwinilunga, Zambezi,
Nchelenge and Kawambwa.
Others are Mbala, Mpika, Mafinga, Petauke, Katete and
Sinda districts.
"This will bring the additional storage of 117,000 tonnes at
a total cost of K110 million," he said.
Mr Simuusa said Government was committed to revamping
and supporting the operations of the FRA to ensure reduced
post harvest grain losses.
He urged FRA to continue collaborating with all
stakeholders on the remaining project sites to ensure that
the facilities were also handed over within reasonable time.
FRA Board chairperson Guy Robinson said depot
infrastructure such as roads, fences, water, sanitation and
electrical reticulation facilities were in a poor state.
Mr Robinson said there was need to address the challenges
which had been highlighted to improve depot infrastructure.