FARMERS ADVISED ON IMPERATIVE USES OF HERBICIDES

WITH the changing times and improved technology, it is imperative for our farmers to take part in enhancing production and productivity, National Association for Small Scale Farmers (NASFA) Executive Director Frank Kayula has said.

Speaking to The Scoop, Dr. Kayula said when smallholder farmers embrace safe usage of herbicides it would help in improving crop production and productivity adding that weed pressure was one of the most enemies to production and productivity.

‘’We must arise as smallholder farmers to overcome challenges to do with weed pressure and poor management of the soils. Farmers require adequate knowledge and experience in using herbicides to manage weed pressure as the learning process is critical,” he said.

Dr Kayula advised farmers to get information by learning from their neighbours or farmer coordinators from the Ministry of Agriculture, or Agricultural Extension Officers in their respective communities in order to be guided.

“It is important for farmers to understand the global harmonised system of classifications and labelling of chemicals. This is an internationally agreed upon system to standardise chemical hazard classifications and communication.

All labels are required to have pictograms, a signal word, hazard and precautionary statements, the product identifier, and supplier identification,” he said.

He added that these hazards consisted of physical, health and environmental hazards stating that the global harmonised system was meant to enforce safety measures on the usage of chemicals.

‘’We have observed that many farmers use pesticides and herbicides without taking safety precautions. Therefore, farmers are advised to ensure that they protect themselves and the environment as they use chemicals because they are toxic.

If you cannot read, the pictogram illustrates the dangers of such a particular chemical in a graphical composition that may include a symbol or other graphic elements. Never compromise safety on the usage of chemicals,” he emphasized.

Dr Kayula noted that the globally harmonised systems of classification and labelling of chemicals was to enhance and improve life in a widespread practice worldwide but alongside the benefits of these products, there is also the potential for adverse effects to people or the environment.

Meanwhile, the Zambia Consumers Association (ZACA) executive secretary Juba Sakala has expressed concern over an attempted protest by some bus drivers over the adjustment of bus fares.

Mr Sakala has called on affected parties to find the best solution through dialogue to avoid misunderstanding.

“We as ZACA sympathise with transporters and drivers but the best solution is to dialogue with Government and other stakeholders and find a common ground.

We hope this does not generate anarchy and disorder in the transport sector, because operators are claiming that the hike by K1 and K2 is small considering the situation where the cost of doing business is extremely high and they said that they would rather start working from the streets or along the roads because there are no costs for people operating out of the station,” he said.