Zambia committed to change agric sector – Mukwita

Thu, 22 Feb 2018 08:55:04 +0000

By ENOCK KADEMAUNGA

ZAMBIA is committed to convert the agricultural sector to include mechanisation and improve food production, security and profitability, ambassador to Germany Anthony Mukwita has said.

Speaking in Poland where he is visiting URSUS, a company that intends to open a tractor assembly plant in Zambia, Mr Mukwita, who is also accredited to that country, said government had put in place measures that would transform traditional farming methods through introduction of modern means of food production.

Mr Mukwita said he was aware that the contract was signed about a year ago and was in the country to underscore the commitment of the Zambian government to the ingenuity which, once implemented should see between 2000 and 3000 tractors assembled in Zambia.

In response, URSUS president, Karol Zarajczk, said his company was equally committed and in a hurry to set up in Zambia and begin assembling tractors.

The project is one of the biggest his company has had to commit itself to on the African continent.

“We will not only assemble tractors but other parts such as trailers and front-loaders as well in addition to setting up , in each of the ten provincial centres, facilities where after-sale services such as repairs and sale of spare parts will be provided”, Zarajczk explained

Meanwhile URSUS vice president, Monika Kosko, expressed optimism that the few challenges delaying the implementation of the project would be resolved and the company will be established.

“We are certain that soon rather than later, the project is taking off in Zambia”, Ms. Koska said.

Since the agreement was signed, there has been discussion with the company as well as the Polish government which is providing the line of credit to the tune of 100 million dollars for the factory to be set up in the country.

Mr Mukwita assured the company management that Zambia was still committed to the project.