This theme reminds us of the critical role that science and research continues to play in the development of technologies critical for enhancing agricultural efficiency and productivity. [...] Forms of innovative technology that can and are being used to address some of the challenges above include but are not limited to: The use of sensor technology is increasingly being applied by farmers to understand their crops at a micro level, reduce environmental impacts, and conserve resources. [...] • In the crop sector, biotechnology has also led to improved yields, reduced vulnerability of crops to environmental stresses and increased the nutritional qualities of food crops. [...] In consideration of the theme “Innovation and Technology”, Policy Monitoring and Research Centre (PMRC) believes that one key policy option which could aid in the successful implementation of the above mentioned technologies is to enhance private sector partnership for joint action aimed at financing research and development as well as technological transfer in the agricultural sector. [...] In this regard, it is worth noting that the 2022 National Budget included a significant increase in the funding of research and development under the Ministry of Agriculture from K5,957,500 in 2021 to K25,146,955 in 2022.
- Pages
- 3
- Published in
- Zambia
