The Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) today hosted a courtesy call by the Zambia National Farmers’ Union (ZNFU), led by its President, Mr. Zvhikonyo Mahombe, at the Authority’s Headquarters in Lusaka.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the two institutions to reaffirm their longstanding partnership and to discuss areas of mutual interest to strengthen sustainable water resources management, support agricultural productivity, and enhance national food security.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Mahombe congratulated WARMA Director General, Ms. Misozi Ngulube, on her appointment and reaffirmed ZNFU’s commitment to working closely with the Authority in addressing issues affecting the agricultural sector, particularly those relating to water resources management, water use permitting, and sustainable water allocation.
He emphasized that water is the lifeblood of agriculture and a critical enabler of food security and economic development.
He noted that continued collaboration between ZNFU and WARMA is essential to ensure that farmers have timely access to information on water resources management, enabling them to make informed decisions and adequately prepare for emerging challenges, including climate variability.
The Director General welcomed the continued partnership between WARMA and ZNFU, describing the Union as one of the Authority’s key strategic stakeholders in promoting sustainable water resources management and climate-resilient agriculture.
Ms. Ngulube underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration with farmers and other stakeholders to promote responsible water use, protect the country’s water resources, and support sustainable socio-economic development.
She also highlighted the importance of water harvesting and storage in strengthening resilience to climate change and improving water security for agricultural production.
The Director General further outlined ongoing initiatives by the Authority, including the implementation of the Water Resources Management (Water Harvesting and Storage) Regulations, 2024, and the development of the Draft National Dam Safety Guidelines, which are intended to strengthen the safe planning, construction, operation, and maintenance of dams and other water storage infrastructure.
ZNFU Executive Director, Mr. Harad Lungu, also reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with WARMA, particularly in enhancing awareness among farmers on water resources management.
He emphasized the importance of continued stakeholder engagement, timely information sharing, and coordinated interventions to support sustainable agricultural production and responsible water use.
The meeting concluded with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration through continued dialogue, knowledge sharing, and joint initiatives aimed at promoting water security, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and national development.