On October 18, 2024, the governments of Zambia and the United States signed a landmark US$491.75 million grant through the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). This Zambia Farm-to-Market Compact is designed to strengthen Zambia’s agriculture and agro-processing sectors, aiming to drive economic recovery and transformation.
This debt-free grant includes US$458 million from the MCC and US$33.75 million from the Zambian government. Key goals include enhancing food security, reducing transportation costs for agricultural goods, and increasing access to farming equipment and infrastructure financing.
President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the importance of the grant, noting its alignment with Zambia’s transformation agenda. Key infrastructure projects under this initiative will include upgrading roads, such as the Chipata-Lundazi and Mumbwa-Landless Corner routes, which will help farmers access markets and improve productivity.
The signing of the compact represents a deepening relationship between Zambia and the United States, showcasing their commitment to sustainable economic growth and collaboration. This initiative marks a significant step in Zambia’s path to agricultural prosperity.
