The Muchinga Provincial Agricultural, Tourism and Commercial Show was officially opened today by the Muchinga Permanent Secretary Rev. Mathews Chilekwa who emphasized the urgent need for adaptive measures to combat climate change while highlighting government initiatives to promote food security and economic growth.

Under the theme “Adapting to Climate Change,” this year’s show brings together stakeholders from across the province and beyond to address the pressing challenges posed by erratic weather patterns, including droughts and floods, which have threatened food production and livelihoods.

In his keynote address, the Permanent Secretary underscored government’s commitment to securing national food reserves through the Food Reserve Agency (FRA), which aims to purchase 130,000 metric tonnes of white maize (2.6 million bags) and 476 metric tonnes of paddy rice in Muchinga Province during this year’s crop marketing season. With 201 satellite depots now operational from 159 last year, the government is poised to ensure timely payments to farmers and stabilize mealie meal prices.

The Permanent Secretary highlighted key government interventions, including:

– Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP): Benefiting 65,153 farmers in Muchinga through e-vouchers, ensuring early input distribution for the upcoming season.

– Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF): Over 900 farmers have accessed loans, with new opportunities for irrigation and mechanization equipment now available.

– Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and Zambia Agribusiness Trade Project (ZATP): Encouraging farmers and cooperatives to leverage these programs for business growth.

The Permanent Secretary urged:

– Farmers to supply produce to the FRA and adopt climate-resilient practices.

– Agro-dealers and private sector players to actively participate in FISP and other programs.

– Local businesses to prepare for the Trade Expo by enhancing service delivery.

In a major development, Muchinga Province will host its inaugural Provincial Trade and Investment Expo from 15th to 19th September 2025 showcasing untapped opportunities in mining, agriculture, tourism, and energy. The event aims to attract investors, spur industrialization, and create employment across the province.

The Permanent Secretary commended the Show Society for its role in promoting agricultural and commercial excellence. He called for continued growth in participation and innovation to drive Muchinga’s prosperity.

 

Issued by

Ruth Mumba

Principal Public Relations Officer

Muchinga Province