Hon. Sunday Chanda, Member of Parliament for Kanchibiya, is calling for a new focus on agriculture to transform Zambia’s economy. He believes the country’s vast arable land, favorable climate, and hardworking citizens are untapped resources that can drive growth.
Chanda argues that modernizing agriculture is essential for Zambia’s future. He says the country must reduce its reliance on rain-fed farming. By investing in irrigation systems, Zambia can ensure year-round farming and reduce the impact of climate change.
The MP also stresses the importance of strengthening Zambia’s agribusiness sector. He envisions Zambia becoming a hub for agricultural processing. This would not only add value to raw crops but also create thousands of jobs, especially in rural areas.
Chanda points to mechanization as another key to success. He suggests the government partner with private businesses to provide modern farming equipment and training to small-scale farmers. This would boost productivity and help farmers thrive.
He also advocates for crop diversification. While maize is a staple, Chanda urges Zambia to grow crops like cassava, millet, rice, and high-value cash crops. He draws inspiration from Côte d’Ivoire, where diversification has transformed agriculture.
However, Chanda acknowledges the challenges. High input costs, fertilizer smuggling, and limited market access threaten progress. He calls for urgent action, including tax incentives on inputs, improved distribution systems, and policies to curb resource leakages.
“Agriculture is more than just feeding the nation,” Chanda says. “It’s a powerful tool to tackle inflation, reduce poverty, and drive economic growth.” He urges all stakeholders, from policymakers to citizens, to work together and create an environment where agriculture can thrive.
Chanda concludes by stressing the need to empower farmers, ensure affordable inputs, and adopt modern farming techniques. “Together, we can unlock agriculture’s full potential and build a prosperous, sustainable future for Zambia,” he says.
This call comes at a time when Zambia is rethinking its economic priorities. Agriculture stands out as the key to long-term growth and prosperity.
