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The Ministry of Agriculture has announced the commencement of farmer registration for the cultivation and export of early maize, a move aimed at boosting production and enhancing Zambia’s participation in regional and international markets.
According to the Ministry, the programme is open to local farmers who were willing to commit to producing a minimum of 500 metric tons of Non-GMO Grade A white maize.
Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer, Bhalewa Zyuulu, in a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday said farmers who meet the requirements would be eligible to export their harvests to markets of their choice.
Zyuulu stated that this was, however, subject to meeting stipulated conditions.
He highlighted key timelines under the programme to include farmer registration and initial inspections by October 10, 2025, planting by 30th October 2025, field inspections from 1 to December 10, 2025, and harvesting by 31st March 2026.
Zyuulu announced that the export permit window would officially open on March 1, 2026.
“Farmers registered under the programme will be required to allow the Ministry of Agriculture to monitor their fields until harvest, and have irrigation facilities to ensure continuous production regardless of rainfall variability,” he said.
Read More: Food Reserve Agency initiates purchase of white maize from small-scale farmers nationwide
Zyuulu stated the government had also committed to issue export permits to all farmers registered under the Early Maize Programme.
However, he said in the event of a shortage in the national Strategic Food Reserves, Government reserved the right of first refusal to purchase maize produced under this programme.
In addition, the Ministry emphasized that the maize must meet strict export specifications, including a maximum moisture content of 12.5 percent, aflatoxin levels not exceeding 10 parts per billion, and a limit on defective and insect-damaged grains. The produce must strictly be white, Non-GMO, and of Grade A quality.
“This initiative will not only promote export diversification but also enhance farmers’ incomes while strengthening Zambia’s position as a reliable grain supplier in the region,” Zyuulu stated.
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