President Hichilema says maize seed exports doubled, hit 53,000 metric tonnes in 2024

President Hakainde Hichilema says Zambia’s maize seed exports have doubled from 27,000 metric tonnes in 2021 to more than 53,000 metric tonnes in 2024, with the country successfully entering the European seed market through the Seed Control and Certification Institute (SCCI).

Hichilema disclosed this in a speech delivered on his behalf by Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo during the commissioning of the US$40 million Great Leaf Tobacco Processing Plant in Kabwe on Thursday.

Hichilema said the Ministry of Agriculture had released over 30 climate-smart seed varieties resistant to drought, pests and diseases, arguing that the move strengthens food security for both smallholder and commercial farmers.

The President said government policies were aimed at shifting agriculture from subsistence to commercial production and from exporting raw commodities to exporting value-added products.

He said the expected transformation would create jobs, raise incomes and improve livelihoods, particularly in areas such as Kabwe.

Hichilema urged stakeholders to support investments like the Great Leaf Tobacco facility, noting the crop’s role as a key source of income for farmers in Eastern, Central and Western provinces.

He said local processing retained more value within the country and supported job creation.

Hichilema said government continued to address policy constraints, improve access to finance and invest in infrastructure to support private-sector growth, describing the sector as central to sustainable economic development.

He also cited measures such as plant quarantine and phytosanitary standards to protect agricultural resources while expanding export opportunities.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.