THE Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development ministry has distributed solar kits to 64 extension officers in Mwenezi to boost smart agriculture initiatives in the district.
Authorities said the move was also aimed at enhancing the performance of agricultural extension officers who are critical in supporting communal farmers, especially in remote wards.
“We are addressing real challenges that our officers face in the field,” provincial director Calob Mahoya said.
“Most of them operate in areas without electricity or experience constant load-shedding.
“With these solar kits, they can now power their gadgets, charge their tablets and maintain communication with farmers and supervisors.”
Mahoya said the kits were part of a broader government thrust towards smart agriculture, where technology and innovation were being integrated into everyday farming and extension work.
The solar kits will allow extension workers to operate more efficiently, even in the most remote parts of the district.
“This is part of our smart agriculture drive. We are equipping our extension officers to be more responsive, visible and effective in delivering government services where they are needed most,” Mahoya said.
- Solar kits to boost smart agriculture in Mwenezi
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Mwenezi East legislator Sheilla Chikomo applauded the initiative and reaffirmed her commitment to seeing rural communities benefit from government programmes.
In an unrelated development, a locally-based renewable energy company Cicada Africa, through Cicada Solar, has commissioned a one megawatt solar power plant at Falcon College.
Cicada Solar financed the construction of the facility and will be responsible for its operation and maintenance.
“This plant will ensure that Falcon has plenty of reliable, cost-effective power for its thriving classrooms, dormitories and sports fields as the college grows from strength to strength,” Cicada Solar said in a statement.
