Zambia Charts Climate-Smart Future with New Agricultural Journal
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a climate-smart, science-driven agricultural sector as it unveiled new initiatives aimed at boosting food security and rural livelihoods.
Speaking on behalf of Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo, MP, Acting Permanent Secretary for Administration Mr. Lemmy Kamfwamfwa officially opened the First Annual Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Agricultural Institute of Zambia (AIZ) at Radisson Blu Hotel in Lusaka.
Mr. Kamfwamfwa said the conference comes at a pivotal time as Zambia confronts the twin challenges of climate change and low productivity. He emphasized that Government is rolling out practical, science-based solutions, including conservation farming, crop diversification, irrigation expansion, and the adoption of drought-tolerant seed varieties.
In line with the country’s long-term vision, Mr. Kamfwamfwa revealed ambitious production targets set for 2031: 10 million metric tonnes of maize, 1 million metric tonnes of wheat, and 1 million metric tonnes of soybeans.
He noted that the Presidential Irrigation Programme alone is expected to deliver 340,000 metric tonnes of maize in 2025, rising to over 1.6 million metric tonnes in 2026.
As part of the event, Mr. Kamfwamfwa launched the Zambian Journal of Agricultural Science, a national platform for sharing research, promoting innovation, and showcasing homegrown solutions tailored to Zambia’s agricultural realities.
He urged researchers, academics, and industry players to contribute actively to the journal to bridge the gap between scientific insights and on-the-ground practices.
“The task of building a resilient agricultural sector requires the input of agronomists, soil scientists, livestock specialists, extension officers, researchers, and most importantly, the hardworking farmers who form the backbone of our nation,” Mr. Kamfwamfwa said.
The Government also commended the Agricultural Institute of Zambia for hosting its inaugural Annual Scientific Conference, assuring stakeholders of continued support toward developing a professional, climate-resilient, and prosperous agricultural sector.
