CSPR Calls for Stronger Investment in Climate-Resilient and Food-Secure Agriculture Sector
The Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR), led by Executive Director Ms. Isabel Mutembo Mukelabai, has appeared before the National Assembly Committee on Agriculture, Lands and Natural Resources to present its budget submissions on Head 89: Ministry of Agriculture and Head 86: Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock.
CSPR expressed concern over a marginal reduction in the 2026 agriculture budget, noting that the sector has been allocated ZMW 13.22 billion—representing a 0.3% decrease from the ZMW 13.5 billion allocated in 2025. The Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) received ZMW 9.15 billion, slightly down from ZMW 9.27 billion in the previous year.
Particularly worrying, according to CSPR, is the 12% reduction in the Strategic Food Reserve (SFR) allocation—from ZMW 2.37 billion in 2025 to ZMW 2.10 billion in 2026. The organisation warned that this decline could weaken Zambia’s capacity to maintain adequate grain stocks and respond to climate-induced food insecurity.
On a positive note, allocations for Animal Health Services under the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock have increased significantly to ZMW 764.71 million in 2026, up from ZMW 498.82 million in 2024.
CSPR commended this move, noting that enhanced funding for disease surveillance and control—particularly for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP)—could strengthen rural livelihoods and boost livestock trade.
CSPR further observed that while the 2026 agriculture and livestock budget maintains a focus on smallholder support and animal health, it falls short of the strategic investments required to make the sector more resilient and market-driven.
The organisation called for a more forward-looking approach that prioritises irrigation, agricultural research, livestock development, and climate adaptation.
“With the right adjustments, Zambia can achieve its national development targets and fulfil its regional and global commitments to sustainable agricultural growth,” CSPR stated.
