Agri Business News

01/09/2025

CEEC-EMPOWERED AQUACULTURE PROJECT TO LAUNCH IN SENANGA

Senanga District will soon host the launch of a Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC)-empowered aquaculture project that brings together four cooperatives with a total of 400 beneficiaries under a single union.

The project, supported by the CEEC and the Fisheries Department, is expected to boost fish production, strengthen the local economy, and create jobs while ensuring sustainable growth in Western Province.

The initiative will include the installation of 126 fish cages, each with capacity to stock 24,000 fingerlings.

In the first year, 56 cages will be stocked with 6,000 fingerlings each, with an expected harvest of 39.44 tonnes of fish in two annual cycles.

This represents a 22 percent increase from current production levels.

At full scale, the project is poised to produce 120.96 tonnes annually, marking a 350 to 450 percent increase.

The project also includes the establishment of a hatchery with the capacity to produce one million fingerlings per year, up from the current 400,000.

In addition, a cold storage truck and cold room container will be stationed in Mongu to improve the fish cold chain and ensure the public receives fresh produce.

All facilities will be owned by the union, benefitting the 400 members directly.

Economic projections indicate that in the first year, the project could generate K806,400 from fish sales and K1 million from fingerling sales, amounting to K1.8 million.

At maximum capacity, revenue could rise to K8.26 million, compared to the current earnings of between K1.72 million and K1.96 million.

The Provincial Fisheries Office has developed a digital monitoring system that will allow daily tracking of water temperature, feeding regimes, fish growth, and disease occurrences.

The system is expected to enhance transparency and accountability through cloud-based storage, automated alerts, and progress dashboards.

The union has also emphasized commitment to repaying the CEEC loan on time, noting that it is a revolving fund meant to extend support to more fish farmers in the province.

The project is expected to empower not only 400 cooperatives members but also other fish farmers in Western province that will be affiliated to the union, provide a steady supply of affordable fish, and strengthen Western Provinces’s contribution to Zambia’s food security and rural economic development.

01/09/2025

THE Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has bought 42,694.2 metric tonnes (mt) of Grade A white maize in Lusaka Province against a target of 22,000mt.

Lusaka Province Minster Sheal Mulyata says there has been overwhelming response from farmers supplying the commodity to the agency due to the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), which has bonded them to deliver at least 10 bags to the agency.

“As a province, we are very happy with the maize purchase situation in all the districts and looking forward to a productive province in the 2025/2026 farming season.

“You will note that the province has already met the target; however, in line with the government directive to purchase about one million metric tonnes, the agency has continued to purchase maize in all the districts. The 42,694.2 metric tonnes of maize purchased is valued at K290,320,560,” she said.

Ms Mulyata said FRA has also responded by increasing the number of satellite depots in the district to cater for the increased number of farmers supplying maize to the agency.

01/09/2025

The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) is advising farmers to purchase fertilizers and other agricultural inputs from recognized, regulated, and reputable outlets to ensure optimal crop yields. ZCSA Executive Director Gerald Chizinga emphasized the importance of sourcing products from trusted suppliers.

*Key Recommendations:*

- Buy fertilizers and other products from familiar brands or those traceable to registered manufacturers or importers.
- Be cautious of products that don't comply with regulatory requirements, as they may be removed from the market.

*Reporting Suspicious Products:*

- If you encounter suspicious products, report to ZCSA, Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA), Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI), or the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) for action.

*Government Efforts:*

- The joint inspections are part of the government's efforts to protect farmers and national food security.

By following these guidelines, farmers can minimize risks and ensure they're using quality products that meet regulatory standards.

31/08/2025

TBZ DRAWS THE LINE
As Compliance is Key to To***co Industry Survival
By Penjani Nzima
THE To***co Board of Zambia (TBZ) has issued a clear and uncompromising message as the 2025 to***co agricultural season gets underway: compliance is not optional, it is the lifeline of the industry.
Opening the season on April 1st, TBZ reminded growers and sponsors that registration and nursery inspections are the bedrock of Zambia’s to***co sector.
The board noted that without them, the country risks undermining both its reputation and its economic gains from one of its most valuable export crops.
This is contained in the Press release by TBZ Manager Corporate Affairs and Communications Lee Haamunji and made available to this reporter.
“All to***co growers must complete their registration by October 31st,” stressed Mr Haamunji.
“This process ensures that we maintain an accurate database of growers, sponsors, and their respective production capacities. Without compliance, the system fails—and when the system fails, the industry suffers.”
He said according to the To***co Act, growers who miss the October deadline may still register between November 1st and December 31st, but only by paying a penalty.
And sponsors are also legally bound to register and submit lists of their contracted farmers by October 31st, enabling TBZ to carry out verification and monitoring added Mr Haamunji.
He noted that TBZ’s insistence on compliance extends beyond paperwork because this year, the Board is intensifying nursery inspections—an often-overlooked but critical stage of the crop cycle.
He disclosed that Inspectors will be checking seedbed preparation, fertilizer use, and pest management to ensure high-quality seedlings.
“Nursery hygiene and the correct application of chemicals are not optional—they are mandatory,” noted Mr Haamunji.
“The quality of seedlings at the nursery stage directly determines the quality of the to***co at harvest. Poor compliance at this level undermines the entire value chain," he emphasized.
Mr Haamunji indicated that the watchdog’s tone underscores the stakes as To***co remains a cornerstone of Zambia’s agricultural exports, competing in global markets where quality and traceability are paramount.
Any lapse in compliance, TBZ warns, threatens not just individual farmers but the entire industry’s credibility abroad.
He said compliance also carries tangible benefits not only for farmers but also registered growers who will gain access to formal markets, extension support, and financial facilities.
He noted that nursery inspections are vital as they improve chances of strong yields and profitable harvests. And non-compliance, by contrast, risks penalties, exclusion, and economic setbacks.
Mr Haamunji emphasized: “Compliance is not negotiable. It is the cornerstone of a sustainable, competitive, and respected to***co industry. The responsibility lies with every stakeholder to uphold these standards.”
With deadlines looming, TBZ’s message is blunt: the future of Zambia’s to***co rests on whether growers and sponsors meet their obligations.

31/08/2025

Baobab trees, found across sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar, can live for over 2,500 years and store more than 30,000 gallons of water in their massive trunks, making them vital in dry regions. Beyond their ecological importance, they hold deep cultural value, often serving as community gathering spots, places for storytelling, and even centers for resolving disputes—truly a living system of survival.

31/08/2025

Canadian researchers found that waxworm caterpillars can break down polyethylene plastic bags within 24 hours, turning the material into body fat. Around 2,000 worms can consume one bag per day, but a plastic-only diet soon kills them. Scientists at Brandon University are exploring supplements to keep the caterpillars alive while sustaining their plastic-eating ability.

31/08/2025

Eggplants contain tiny amounts of ni****ne, but it’s harmless. You’d need to eat about 9 kilograms of eggplant to match the ni****ne in one cigarette. Unlike smoking, eating eggplant is safe and provides many health benefits.

31/08/2025

MDI CHAMPIONS ZAMBIA’S INDUSTRIAL GROWTH WITH STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENTS IN SOUTH AFRICA

30th August 2025 | Midrand, South Africa

Muvombo Development Initiatives (MDI) directors are in South Africa on a strategic mission designed to unlock new opportunities for Zambia’s industries and communities.

The team, hosted by Dr. Kihura Nkuba, proprietor of SpecPharm in Midrand, is strengthening collaboration in the pharmaceutical sector while paving the way for the introduction of the Ankole-Watusi cattle breed into Zambia. Known for their resilience to tough climates, strong disease resistance and low-cost maintenance, the Ankole are expected to transform ranching, broaden agribusiness and complement government efforts to modernize agriculture and uplift rural livelihoods.

Meanwhile, back home in Zambia, MDI has advanced engagements in the energy sector targeting 900 megawatts. Out of this, the first 400 megawatts is at an advanced stage and earmarked to be offloaded onto the national grid once all requirements are in place. This contribution directly supports President Hakainde Hichilema’s target of 1,000 megawatts to stabilize electricity supply, a milestone that will ease power shortages and boost industrial productivity.

By driving partnerships across pharmaceuticals, agriculture and energy, MDI is cementing its role as a key development partner, working hand in hand with the New Dawn Government to accelerate economic transformation and improve the quality of life for all Zambians.

“The Ankole breed will not only diversify Zambia’s livestock industry but also empower ranchers with a hardy, disease-resistant and climate-smart option.”

© MD-Tv Team.
[email protected]

Ministry of Information and Media - Zambia Ministry of Commerce,Trade and Industry Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Zambia Ministry of Agriculture, Zambia Ministry of Green Economy and Environment - Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Department Ministry of Fisheries

31/08/2025

Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema announced that the country has achieved food security and now has surplus food for export. This achievement comes after a severe drought in early 2024, which prompted the President to declare a national emergency. Speaking at the Kulamba Traditional Ceremony, Hichilema praised farmers for their resilience and hard work in producing a bumper harvest.

The President emphasized the importance of efficient agriculture that takes into account the negative effects of climate change. He encouraged farmers to adopt irrigation and water harvesting mechanisms to mitigate the impact of droughts. Hichilema also urged citizens to stop harmful practices like bush burning, which can damage the ozone layer and affect rainfall patterns.

Key points:

- Zambia has achieved food security and has surplus food for export.
- The country is working to mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture.
- President Hichilema emphasized the importance of efficient agriculture and irrigation.
- Citizens are urged to stop harmful practices like bush burning.

By achieving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture, Zambia is taking steps towards a more food-secure future.

29/08/2025

Retain residues in the Field

The Conservation Farming Unit has consistently advised farmers against burning agricultural residues, emphasizing the vital role these materials play in promoting soil health. Some of the benefits of Agricultural Residues are:

✅Moisture Conservation
Residues help retain soil moisture, which is particularly beneficial in dry conditions, reducing the need for irrigation and promoting healthier crops.

✅Boosting Soil Microbial Activity
The presence of residues encourages microbial activity, which is essential for breaking down organic matter and enhancing nutrient availability for plants.

✅Enhancement of Soil Fertility
Agricultural residues contribute organic matter to the soil, improving its fertility. This enrichment leads to better nutrient availability, fostering robust crop growth.

✅Erosion Prevention
By serving as a protective layer, residues help shield the soil from erosion caused by wind and rain. This protection is crucial for maintaining essential topsoil and preventing nutrient loss.

✅Support for Biodiversity
Decomposing residues create a habitat rich in nutrients for microorganisms and beneficial insects, contributing to a diverse and balanced soil ecosystem.

✅Nutrient Cycling
As residues break down, they release vital nutrients back into the soil, promoting a sustainable nutrient cycle that supports ongoing agricultural productivity.

✅Carbon Sequestration
Keeping residues in the field aids in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

✅Weed Management
A blanket of residues can effectively suppress w**d growth by blocking sunlight and preventing seed germination, thereby reducing the reliance on chemical herbicides

✅Embracing the importance of agricultural residues, farmers can significantly improve soil health, increase crop yields, and contribute to sustainable farming practices.

CFU Communications

29/08/2025

Flowering and Fruiting stage – a very critical time that determines yield and fruit quality. 🌼➡️🍉

✅ Fertilizer Needs at This Stage
At flowering and fruiting, watermelons require:

Potassium (K): for fruit size, sweetness, and firmness.

Phosphorus (P): to support continuous flowering and strong fruit set.

Calcium & Boron: to prevent fruit cracking and improve quality.
👉 This is the best time to apply Potassium-rich fertilizers (like SOP, MOP, or a BIO NPK with high K content) and supplement with foliar sprays containing Calcium & Boron.

🚨 Pests & Insects to Watch Out For
At this stage, be extra alert for:

Aphids 🐜 (sap suckers, vectors of viral diseases)

Thrips 🌿 (damage flowers, reduce fruit set)

Fruit flies 🪰 (attack developing fruits)

Cutworms & Beetles 🐛 (feed on leaves and young fruits)

Timely scouting and control are key to protecting your crop. Healthy plants + proper nutrition = a bumper watermelon harvest.

29/08/2025