By JOSIAH MPOFU
THE Agricultural Institute of Zambia (AIZ) has issued 807 practicing licences to agricultural professionals and institutions.
The issuance of practicing licenses to agricultural professionals and institutions was the first of its kind since the formation of the Agricultural professional body last year.
In an interview in Lusaka, AIZ Registrar, Mathews Ngosa, said the agricultural professionals, agribusiness, training and research institutions as well as consultants should collect their certificates.
Mr. Ngosa noted that the development will enable them to carry out their agricultural functions in a professional manner.
He explained that anyone who want to offer any agricultural services must register with AIZ and obtain a practicing license.
He further emphasised the need for any agricultural professionals and institutions to ensure that they adhere to the set guidelines and regulations by the institutions to avoid any inconveniences.
Mr Ngosa indicated that failure to acquire the practicing licences will result in most of the agricultural experts failing to undertake their services as they will not be allowed to practice.
He stated that the decision has been arrived at in accordance of the AIZ Act Number 2 of 2017 which demands that every Agricultural professional should be registered with the professional board and obtain a practicing license.
And AIZ Vice President, Marx Mbunji, said all agriculturists and agricultural institutions should comply as no one will be employed and offer services related to agriculture, or be engaged as an agriculture agent.
Mr. Mbunji disclosed that the move is aimed at curbing unscrupulous individuals from masquerading as agriculturists and bring order and sanity in the professional.
He said many farmers have been cheated by unscrupulous individuals who pretend to be agricultural experts thereby affecting their agricultural production and productivity.
Mr. Mbunji has urged individuals and institutions that will obtain the practicing licenses to conduct themselves in a manner that will enhance agricultural productivity among farmers and improve the operations of agricultural professionals and institutions. – NAIS
