
05/09/2025
AGRICULTURE MINISTER WARNS AGRO-DEALERS AGAINST FISP ABUSE
September 5.2025
Chipo Nachibbatu
Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo has urged agro-dealers to uphold integrity as government rolls out the 2025/2026 Farmer Input Support Programme under a fully implemented e-voucher system.
Addressing dealers in Lusaka, Mr. Mtolo warned that any malpractice such as discounting vouchers or fraud will lead to immediate termination of business ties.
He said government expects clear coverage across all provinces, districts, and constituencies to ensure fair access to inputs, stressing that FISP goes beyond maize to include livestock, aquaculture, rice, and honey production.
Mr. Mtolo further announced that all outstanding payments to dealers had been cleared and assured timely fortnightly disbursements going forward.
He also advised large suppliers to formalize contracts with smaller dealers to prevent disputes, cautioning that government may revert to bulk purchases if the private sector fails to deliver.
The Minister encouraged agro-dealers to diversify into irrigation equipment and livestock products in line with Zambia’s broader agricultural transformation agenda.
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