Gov’t to Fund Nakonde’s First Rice Plant
The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, has announced plans to fund the first ever rice processing plant in Nakonde District, Muchinga Province.
This strategic move aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision to empower local small-scale farmers and enhance the country’s economic development. Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Hon. Elias Mubanga, revealed the development during his tour of a 50-hectare rice farm in Nakonde, a project supported by the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC).
“It is sad that after harvesting the rice, farmers have to cross over to Tanzania to process because on the Zambian side there is no rice processing plant,” the Minister said.
Hon. Mubanga stated that the establishment of a local processing facility will reduce transportation and processing costs for farmers, while also boosting the value of locally grown rice.
“Nakonde is well known for rice production due to favourable climatic conditions, but when the rice is processed in Tanzania, it becomes expensive. We want it to be processed locally so that the price of the commodity becomes affordable for all,” he added.
This initiative is expected to transform Nakonde into a key rice production and processing hub, enhancing agricultural productivity and opening new economic opportunities for small-scale farmers across Muchinga Province.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting viable business plans across the country, regardless of citizens’ social or political backgrounds.
