Central Province is set to produce more than 92,000 metric tonnes of wheat this year, representing over 59 percent of Zambia’s national target of 129,000 metric tonnes. This significant output places the region among the top wheat producers in the country, according to Provincial Minister Mwabashike Nkulukusa.
In a speech read on his behalf by Provincial Permanent Secretary Milner Mwanakampwe during the second quarter Provincial Development Coordinating Committee (PDCC) meeting held in Kabwe, Mr. Nkulukusa also emphasized the province’s strong performance in maize production. Central Province is projected to contribute approximately 680,000 metric tonnes of maize, which accounts for 18.5 percent of the national total.
On the investment front, Central Province has attracted over 2 billion US dollars in pledged investments over the past three years, spanning key sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure. A notable portion of this investment comes from Chinese investors, who have pledged USD 722 million. This includes USD 600 million allocated for the Zambia-Jiangxi Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ), with USD 200 million already actualized.
Mr. Nkulukusa described the MFEZ as a major milestone in Zambia’s industrialization agenda. He highlighted its potential to create jobs, facilitate technology transfer, and offer opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to connect with global markets.
Meanwhile, Kabwe District Commissioner Lennox Shimwambwa, who also serves as Dean of District Commissioners, voiced concerns about delays in implementing community projects funded under the 2023 Constituency Development Fund (CDF). He further called for improved execution of the Cash for Work Programme, noting that progress in this initiative has been slow.
As Central Province continues to drive agricultural production and attract substantial investments, it remains a critical player in Zambia’s broader economic growth and development goals.