Zambia’s small-scale farmers have made a remarkable recovery following the severe 2023/2024 drought, achieving a record maize harvest in the 2024/2025 farming season, the National Union for Small-scale Farmers of Zambia (NUSFAZ) has reported. Improved rainfall and better access to farming inputs were key factors driving the recovery.
In an interview, NUSFAZ Executive Director Ebony Lolozhi highlighted the resilience of smallholder farmers and the impact of favourable climate conditions on agricultural productivity. He recalled that the 2023/2024 season was extremely challenging, with drought reducing soya bean production by about 70 percent and maize output by nearly 50 percent.
The following season delivered a strong rebound. Maize production rose to approximately 3.6 million tonnes, up from roughly 1.5 million tonnes in the drought-affected year, marking an increase of over 100 percent. “This demonstrates how quickly the sector can recover when weather conditions improve and farmers have access to essential inputs,” Lolozhi said.
The recovery is credited not only to improved rainfall but also to enhanced access to seeds, fertilisers, and other farming resources that enabled small-scale farmers to maximise their yields. NUSFAZ notes that the rebound will strengthen food security in Zambia and provide a boost to rural livelihoods.
The record maize harvest also offers opportunities for growth in agro-processing and trade, as surplus production supports both domestic consumption and potential exports. The turnaround highlights the critical role of climate resilience measures and government support in stabilising agricultural production.
This success underscores the importance of ongoing investment in smallholder farming, access to inputs, and climate-adaptive practices to safeguard Zambia’s agricultural sector against future shocks.