More Egyptian crops to be grown in Zambia

THE Egyptian government says it intends to increase its farm area in Mwembeshi, Central province in order to cultivate a number of Egyptian crops.

An Egyptian delegation which was in the country last July and visited the farm was impressed with production going on there and how Egyptian crops have adapted to the Zambian climate.

The delegation indicated that there was need to introduce new form of cultivation through crop diversification such as growing of Egyptian maize, peaches, mango, wheat and livestock.

In a statement, Ambassador of Egypt, Mr Ragai Tawfik Nasr said the delegation was happy with the Zambia because of the good weather to which Egyptian crops have adapted so well. The growing of Egyptians crops on the Zambian soils will help the integration in the agriculture sector of both countries. 

“The delegation comprised officials from institute of technological research and cultivation and the Arab land. The team further recommended to maintain the soil and promised to bring new types of Egyptian species,” Mr Nasr said.

Meanwhile, Mr Nasr said Egypt Air, whose initial flights from Cairo to Lusaka had commenced in January, 2011 is expected to resume its flights soon.

The Egyptian airline operated seven flights into Lusaka, from January 17, 2011 to January 28, 2011 after the inaugural flight.

Mr Nasr said the return of Egypt Air to Zambia will increase trade between two countries and also will boost the tourism sector.

Mr Nasr said a delegation from Egypt will be coming to Zambia and discuss the modalities of operations of the Airlines.