Zambia Records Biggest Maize Harvest on Record

The record harvest follows a severe drought during the 2023/24 season that devastated production across much of Southern Africa and forced Zambia to rely on imports. Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa attributed the bumper harvest to favourable weather conditions, timely distribution of farming inputs and targeted policy interventions under the Comprehensive Agriculture Transformation Support Programme. The Zambian government has also lifted restrictions on the export of maize and maize products to encourage private sector participation and create additional markets for farmers.

A Surplus That Could Reshape Regional Markets

Zambia's total maize requirements are estimated at about 2.8 million tonnes for annual consumption, leaving a surplus of close to two million tonnes available for export markets. The record output is expected to strengthen food security, stabilise maize prices and increase export opportunities to neighbouring countries facing grain shortages.

Agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo said Zambia's maize yield will build on South Africa's surplus supplies for the broader Southern African region, positioning the country as a stabilising force in regional food markets. Agricultural expert Coillard Hamusimbi noted that after meeting national consumption, industrial demand and strategic grain reserve targets, Zambia will still have about 2.4 million metric tonnes available for export.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema praises farmers after recording 5 million tonne maize bumper harvest.

Record Harvest, New Challenges

The record harvest has generated optimism that Zambia's agricultural sector is entering a new era of growth, commercialisation and regional influence. President Hakainde Hichilema announced the milestone on social media, posting: "5 million tonnes! Zambia's biggest ever maize harvest. My fellow farmers, we keep working."

The surplus has already had economic effects, with mealie meal prices falling steadily from nearly K300 to between K220 and K230 for a 25kg bag across major brands. However, agricultural experts have warned that overreliance on maize alone could expose farmers to future climate risks. Calls are growing for Zambia to diversify into alternative crops better suited to changing weather conditions, while the government has committed to producing 10 million metric tonnes of maize, 3 million metric tonnes of soybeans and 1 million metric tonnes of wheat annually by 2031.

With reporting from EWN, ZNBC, CNBC Africa, Malawi24, CAJ News Africa, ZANIS and Bloomberg.