THE K15 billion European Union (EU) financial facility, which will benefit 87,000 small-scale farmers is an important contribution by the cooperating partners to improve productivity in the small-scale agriculture sector in the country.

The fund, which was launched in Lusaka yesterday, would assist small-scale farmers grow their investment as lack of funds was one of the hindrances for the people in this category to develop.

Increased income and household food security is certainly a sure panacea to abject poverty, which has afflicted a large portion of Zambia's population.

The Government has introduced various incentives aimed at addressing food security and income at household level such as the fertiliser input support programme (FISP).

But there is still need for supplementary efforts from cooperating partners and other organisations.

The introduction of this facility by the EU is, therefore, one which should be implemented with utmost care so that it serves its intended purpose.

It is pleasing that 30 per cent of the beneficiaries will be women-headed households, as these are the most affected because they have lost bread-winners.

Another important aspect, which is pleasing, is the fact that the fund will be administered through the Zambia National Farmers Union, reputable non-governmental organisations, and the private sector in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives.

This will ensure transparency and accountability in the administration of the funds.

The Government has emphasised the importance of diversifying from mining to agriculture and other sectors.

Thus, the support to the agriculture sector is one feat, which will supplement the Government's effort to improve income and food security.

Once income and food security is improved, vices, which emerge as a result of poverty, would be eradicated.

As EU head of delegation Derek Fee noted, soaring food prices have hit the developing World in recent years, negatively affecting household food security.

It is therefore important that other organisations supplement Government's efforts in improving household food security and income.