The prospects of local vegetable producers are looking up, with consumers filling their food baskets from markets closer to home.
“It is said that these farmers make more money than those growing exotic vegetables, as most people now prefer eating local vegetables,” the Zambian National Farmers’ Union (ZNFU) said in a statement.
According to the ZNFU, local vegetable production is increasing in some areas.
“The production of vegetables such as pumpkin, cassava and sweet potato leaves, normally grown during the rainy season, is increasing in the Copperbelt.”
Sources indicate that farmers now have a wider choice when choosing where to sell their produce. Local chain stores, lodges and restaurants provide additional market opportunities.
Farmers who produce vegetables on a large scale have called upon the government to promote and support their produce.
Other popular local plants include bonka (amarinth), shungwa (spider plant), impwa (African eggplant) and delele (bush ocra). These plants are all excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, and make for a healthy addition to any diet.