Zambia is projected to make history with its highest maize production ever recorded, with an estimated output of 4,937,605 metric tonnes for the 2025/2026 agricultural season, according to the latest Crop Forecasting Survey results released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Zambia in collaboration with the Zambia Statistics Agency.
The figure surpasses last year’s record harvest of 3.9 million metric tonnes, signaling what government officials have described as a historic milestone for the country’s agricultural sector and a strong indicator of continued recovery and growth
Speaking during the official dissemination of the survey results in Lusaka on Tuesday, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa said the projected bumper harvest reflects a combination of favourable weather conditions, timely distribution of farming inputs, and targeted policy interventions under the Comprehensive Agriculture Transformation Support Programme (CATSP) and the Eighth National Development Plan.
He noted that Zambia has now recorded two consecutive seasons of agricultural recovery following the severe climate-induced drought experienced in the 2023/2024 farming season.
He further commended farmers across the country for responding positively to President’s call for increased production through expanded cultivation and improved productivity.
President Hakainde Hichilema also welcomed the development, posting on his official Facebook page: “5 million tonnes! My fellow farmers, we keep working. Bally,” in a brief message celebrating the country’s agricultural performance.
Mr Kangwa further expressed confidence that Zambia is on track to achieve its long-term agricultural targets of producing 10 million metric tonnes of maize, 3 million metric tonnes of soybeans, and 1 million metric tonnes of wheat annually by 2031.
He said government remains committed to supporting the sector through irrigation expansion, mechanisation, improved access to finance, enhanced extension services, and market stabilization.
Beyond maize, the 2025/2026 forecast also indicates increased production of other key crops including rice, soybeans, and wheat. Additionally, the national cereal and tuber food balance sheet for the 2026/2027 marketing season shows that Zambia is expected to record an overall food surplus, ensuring sufficient reserves for domestic consumption.
However, authorities have cautioned that meteorological projections point to a higher likelihood of below-average rainfall in the upcoming 2026/2027 farming season.
Farmers and stakeholders have been urged to strengthen climate resilience measures and adopt climate-smart agricultural practices to safeguard future productivity.
