Mazabuka Farmers Praise FISP e-Voucher System Ahead of Nationwide Rollout
Farmers in Mazabuka have expressed strong support for the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) Electronic Voucher (e-Voucher) system during recent Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture. These discussions, part of a wider review covering 20 districts across 10 provinces, will help shape the full national rollout of the 100% e-Voucher system for the 2025/26 farming season.
Farmers highlighted the system’s flexibility in choosing crop inputs, timely access to agro-inputs, and greater control over their farming decisions. Many reported receiving inputs early, which allowed them to plant on time and save money for other investments.
Agro-dealers providing good service and stock availability also received praise. Several farmers encouraged others to participate, viewing the system as a reliable way to boost productivity and food security.
The shift from the Direct Input Supply model to a market-based e-Voucher system was welcomed by most farmers. Although some initially expected uniform pricing, they now appreciate how market-driven prices promote competition, offering better choices, improved services, and more affordable options. This transition also eases the government’s role, focusing on empowering farmers rather than procuring inputs directly.
Despite positive feedback, farmers noted challenges including occasional system downtimes, queues at redemption points, limited seed variety, transport costs for remote farmers, and mid-season price increases. To address these issues, farmers recommended increasing local agro-dealers, speeding up system reliability, allowing input redemption across multiple dealers, and improving communication between program officers and farmers.
Commenting on the findings, Mr. John Mulongoti, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, said, “We are encouraged by the positive feedback from our farmers in Mazabuka. The e-Voucher system is empowering farmers by providing timely access to inputs and contributing to better harvests.”
He added, “Their feedback on expanding agro-dealers, faster code activation, and clearer communication is guiding our preparations for a smoother national rollout.”
The Ministry of Agriculture remains committed to improving the e-Voucher system as a transparent, efficient, and accountable support mechanism to enhance food security and economic growth in Zambia.
The e-Voucher review, supported by the World Bank through the Food Systems 2030 Trust Fund, included data from 20 districts across 10 provinces. The 2024/2025 e-Voucher system covered 74 districts in 10 provinces, with the review conducted from 12 June to 1 July 2025.
