Zambia, Japan Launch Phase Two of Rice Project to Boost Food Security
The Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has launched the second phase of the Market-Oriented Rice Development Project (MOReDeP), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The initiative reaffirms both nations’ commitment to boosting agricultural productivity, strengthening food security, and improving rural livelihoods.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. John Mulongoti, expressed Zambia’s deep appreciation for Japan’s continued support toward achieving national development goals outlined in the Eighth National Development Plan and Vision 2030.
“Allow me to begin by extending our sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their unwavering support and commitment to our national development priorities,” said Mr. Mulongoti.
Building on the successes of Phase One, MOReDeP II aims to deepen the impact by expanding into critical areas such as rice research, productivity enhancement, rural rice enterprise development, and capacity building at both institutional and community levels.
The first phase of the project had already made significant strides in improving rice yields and promoting sustainable farming practices.
“This phase will build upon the foundations that have been previously laid,” Mulongoti noted. “It comes at a critical time as we continue our efforts to transform the rural economy and align with our national development frameworks and the Sustainable Development Goals.”
Mr. Mulongoti further emphasized that the Zambian government is fully committed to supporting the implementation of MOReDeP II through sound policy measures and an enabling investment environment.
“Together, we are not only growing the rice sector for sustainable and resilient food systems, but also laying the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable future,” he added.
