13/07/2026
ZAMBIA ARMY TARGETS 350 METRIC TONNES OF MAIZE TO BOOST NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY
(By Buffalo Reporter, Solwezi)
The Zambia Army through its Farms Branch is set to make a significant contribution to national food security with a projected harvest of over 350 metric tonnes of white maize in the 2025/26 farming season.
Speaking during the official launch of the harvest season at Solwezi Army Farm, Farms Branch Director General, Brigadier General Zephaniah Phiri attributed the projected increase to the Republican President and Commander-in-Chief’s directive for the Defence Force to play a pivotal role in strengthening the country’s food security.
He emphasised that food security is a critical pillar of national security.
“This year’s projected output of over 350 metric tonnes marks a notable increase from the 238 metric tonnes recorded in the 2024/25 season. This growth reflects our commitment to responding to national food security needed,” Brig Gen Phiri said.
He recalled that during the 2024/25 season, the Solwezi Army Farm cultivated 100 hectares of white maize, which was increased to 150 hectares during the 2025/26 in an effort to enhance productivity.
In line with efforts to diversify production, Brig Gen Phiri disclosed that the farm also harvested approximately 5 metric tonnes of sweet beans during the season.
To ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the Farms Branch has engaged Zam Capito to provide harvesting equipment for this year’s crop marketing season.
Earlier, Brig Gen Phiri and his delegation held discussions with Food Reserve Agency North Western Regional Manager, Mr Dickson Musema on modalities for marketing the maize produced by the Zambia Army.
Also speaking at the event, Solwezi Farm Manager, Major Steven Simukonda noted that the farm has continued to record steady growth in cattle ranching, a development attributed to the importance that Command has placed on agricultural activities within the Army.
Maj Simukonda further revealed that the Directorate has already procured over 50% of farming inputs in preparation for the 2026/27 farming season.
The branch targets to cultivate 200 hectares, comprising 150 hectares of white maize and 50 hectares of sweet beans.
