As a civilian, I have never given a thought that security and defence wings could contribute to the country’s food security at household level, but found Zambia National Service’s (ZNS) objective that it will continue increasing food production to assist the Government meet strategic food reserves and stabilise mealie-meal prices to be something that could be applicable to Zambia Army, Air Force, Police, Immigration and Prison services.

Indeed, it might show that almost all security and defence wings could represent the same ideals of practical solutions, culture of independency and the search for a close relationship with one’s Commander in Chief, President Michael Sata’s goals of increasing food production.

Thanks a million to ZNS commandant Lieutenant General Nathan Mulenga’s published statement at the ZNS 2013 annual ball, which has led me to consider the thinking and practices of other security and defence wings. It is worth noting that Zambia is not at war with any nation at the moment, and agriculture is of primary importance to the country’s economy.

Besides, according to the National Food Balance Sheet for the 2013/2014 agriculture marketing season, the 2012/2013 Crop Forecasting Survey (CFS) results showed that the total national maize requirement for Zambia during the 2013/2014 agricultural marketing season was 2,534,026 metric tonnes.

Furthermore, the food balance sheet noted that the total maize available this season was made up of 2,532,800 metric tonnes that was produced during the 2012/2013 agricultural season and 455,221 metric tonnes carry-over stocks available from the previous season.

Mubanga Luchembe