Gov’t Calls for Stronger Private Sector Collaboration to Accelerate Agricultural Transformation
The Ministry of Agriculture has called on the private sector and industry players to strengthen collaboration with Government in addressing farmers’ needs and advancing Zambia’s agricultural transformation agenda.
Speaking during the official opening of the inaugural Mazabuka Agri-Expo at the Mazabuka Turf Club, the Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Mr John Mulongoti, who represented the Minister of Agriculture, Mr Reuben Mtolo, emphasised that partnerships between Government and the private sector are key to unlocking the full potential of the country’s agricultural value chain.
Mr Mulongoti highlighted that the private sector’s involvement in agro-processing, mechanisation, and agricultural financing has significantly enhanced productivity and improved market access for smallholder farmers. He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment that supports innovation, investment, and value addition in the sector.
The Minister, through his representative, noted that Government is implementing transformative programmes to achieve year-round production, driven by irrigation, mechanisation, climate-smart practices, and technology adoption. He pointed to the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Facility (SAFF) and the establishment of mechanisation centres across the country as key interventions designed to improve farmers’ access to modern equipment and affordable financing.
Mr Mtolo further cited the Presidential Production Targets, which aim for Zambia to produce 10 million metric tonnes of maize, 1 million metric tonnes of wheat, and 1 million metric tonnes of soyabeans by 2031. These targets are backed by the Presidential Irrigation Programme, expected to deliver 340,000 metric tonnes of maize in 2025 and 1.6 million metric tonnes by 2026.
“These targets are ambitious but achievable with the right level of partnership and collaboration. Government alone cannot meet all the needs of our farmers — we need the private sector to complement our efforts through investment in storage facilities, agro-processing plants, and agricultural infrastructure,” he stated.
The Minister also commended Lusaka Happening, the organisers of the Mazabuka Agri-Expo, for creating a platform that promotes knowledge exchange, inclusivity, and youth participation in agriculture.
Meanwhile, Chief Hanjalika of Mazabuka praised Government for implementing practical agricultural policies that have contributed to Zambia’s record-high harvest. He urged farmers to fully utilise available Government programmes and financing facilities to enhance productivity.
The Mazabuka Agri-Expo 2025 has attracted a diverse range of participants, including farmers, agribusiness companies, cooperatives, and financial institutions, showcasing innovations and investment opportunities shaping the future of Zambia’s agriculture.
