PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has applauded Northern Province for recording the highest maize productivity among small and medium-scale farmers during the 2024/25 farming season, despite the province ranking fifth overall in national maize output.
In a speech read on his behalf by Agriculture Minister, Ruben M’tolo at the Ukusefya Pa’Ngwena traditional ceremony in Kasama yesterday, President Hichilema said the province achieved an impressive 31.2 percent increase in maize production among small and medium-scale farmers, from 341,448 metric tonnes in 2023/24 to 447,974 metric tonnes this year.
The President credited the achievement to the hard work of small and medium-scale farmers, who contributed 98.8 percent of the province’s total output.
“This remarkable growth in agricultural productivity is a direct result of our continued investment in farmer support and innovation,” he said.
The Head of State pointed to the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), which reached 98,315 farmers through both the direct input supply and e-voucher systems, ensuring timely access to fertiliser and seed.
All targeted districts received 100 percent of their inputs on time.
President Hichilema also cited the Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility, which provided affordable credit to over 1,100 farmers and the Mechanisation 360 initiative, which improved land preparation and reduced labour intensity.
Beyond agriculture, the President said government is also prioritising rural health infrastructure, highlighting new district hospitals in Lunte and Nsama, maternity annexes in several districts, and the installation of modern medical equipment at Kasama General Hospital.
The ceremony hosted by paramount chief Chitimukulu Manga Kanyanta II was attended by senior chiefs, government officials, and thousands of people from across and beyond the country.
By George Musonda
Kalemba August 10, 2025
