PS Mulongoti Hails E-Voucher System as Game Changer for Zambian Farming
The Ministry of Agriculture has marked a significant milestone in Zambia’s agricultural reforms with the complete transition to an electronic voucher (e-voucher) system under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP).
The announcement was made during a review meeting for the 2025/2026 farming season and a planning session for 2026/2027, led by Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Mr John Mulongoti.
Speaking at the event, Mr Mulongoti described the move to a 100 percent e-voucher system across all 116 districts as a “game changer” for agricultural efficiency, transparency and accountability.
He commended officials at national, provincial and district levels for their professionalism, noting that the programme had largely positive results despite operational challenges.
As of 20 January 2026, 99.94 percent of registered farmers had successfully collected their inputs, while 99.74 percent were verified through the electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) system. All farmers had made their required contributions, 58 percent of eligible bonded farmers sold maize to the Food Reserve Agency, and 66.24 percent of approved agro-dealers participated in the programme.
Mr Mulongoti highlighted the critical role of the Jobs Accelerator Project (JAP) in strengthening FISP implementation and supporting broader agricultural transformation objectives. JAP has facilitated private sector participation, enhanced market linkages, improved access to finance, and promoted youth and small-scale entrepreneurship along the agricultural value chain.
However, he stressed the need for continued improvements in farmer targeting, data integrity, and system responsiveness to ensure timely and equitable support.
Mr Mulongoti also expressed concern over reported misconduct in some districts, including delays in farmer selection and isolated cases of theft, warning that administrative and legal action was being taken against those involved.
The Permanent Secretary reiterated the strategic direction set by President Hakainde Hichilema, aiming for annual production of 10 million metric tonnes of maize, one million metric tonnes of wheat, and one million metric tonnes of soya beans by 2031. These goals are part of the Comprehensive Agricultural Transformation Support Programme (CATSP), which focuses on productivity, sustainability, climate-smart technologies, expansion of agro-dealer networks, and targeted support for vulnerable farmers.
Mr Mulongoti concluded that FISP had not only improved access to inputs but also contributed to job creation, rural economic transformation, and improved livelihoods across Zambia.
