GRZ Contracts 41 Farmers to Boost Maize Production and Food Security

... Mweetwa says Defence Forces have been Mobilized to Support Irrigation Farming in Key Agricultural Areas

By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, Zambia  (12-12-2024) - The government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) has contracted 41 commercial farmers to participate in contract maize farming, which is expected to produce 145,000 metric tons of maize by April 2024. 

This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to combat food insecurity caused by prolonged dry spells and climate change.

Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa, speaking at a media briefing this morning, outlined additional measures aimed at ensuring a stable food supply. 

He revealed that the Defence Forces have been deployed to support food production in the Northern Corridor, particularly in the Luena and Nanzanga farming blocks in Kawambwa and Serenje. 

These areas are being developed for intensive irrigation farming to boost maize yields.

“To stabilize the food supply, we are establishing a continuous agricultural cycle with monthly planting and harvesting activities,” Mweetwa stated. 

“This approach will reduce reliance on seasonal farming and increase resilience against unpredictable weather patterns.”

The government has intensified efforts to support small-scale farmers, who contribute the majority of Zambia’s maize production, by providing early-maturing seed varieties and improving irrigation infrastructure.

 Additionally, private sector agribusinesses are being encouraged to engage in maize production, with the government promising necessary support to enhance their participation.

Mweetwa highlighted that the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) currently holds 363,000 metric tons of maize, complemented by private sector stocks of 750,000 metric tons.

 Maize imports from Tanzania and the anticipated harvest from contracted farmers are expected to sustain the country’s food supply for the next six months.

To further mitigate hunger, the government has maintained FRA community sales, school feeding programs, and household relief maize meal production, ensuring that no Zambian is left vulnerable.

In addition to food security measures, Mweetwa addressed political concerns, dismissing claims of a “Plan B” by some political figures as lacking transparency and potentially destabilizing. 

He called on leaders to prioritize national stability and urged citizens to rely on verified information to avoid misinformation.

He also emphasized the importance of a professional media landscape, announcing plans to revise journalism curricula to include practical training. 

“A well-informed and professional media is vital for promoting transparency and accountability in governance,” he stated.

With these measures, the government aims not only to stabilize the country’s food supply but also to uphold democratic values and foster public trust in its leadership.