By Justine Akakulubelwa

Government has launched the Rural and Agricultural Finance Strategy 2025–2030 aimed at expanding access to affordable financing for farmers, rural enterprises and underserved communities.

Launching the strategy in Lusaka, Secretary to the Treasury FELIX NKULUKUSA said the initiative is designed to address long-standing barriers that have constrained investment in the sector.

Mr. NKULUKUSA said agriculture remains one of Zambia's key economic sectors and a major driver of productivity and growth.

He said the success of the strategy will depend on strong partnerships to strengthen food security, create jobs and empower women and young people.

Mr. NKULUKUSA said this will be achieved through expanded digital financial services, agricultural insurance and value-chain financing.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Permanent Secretary JOHN MULONGOTI described the launch of the strategy as a significant step towards addressing limited access to finance, which remains one of the major challenges facing the agricultural sector.

Mr. MULONGOTI said the framework will strengthen linkages between farmers, financial institutions and markets, while promoting innovative financial solutions for rural communities.

And Ministry of Finance and National Planning Permanent Secretary for Economic Management and Finance MULELE MULELE said the strategy will deepen financial inclusion and create opportunities to drive economic growth and build resilience against climate-related shocks.

Meanwhile, German Agency for International Cooperation –GIZ- Programme Manager ELINA WEBER said the organisation will continue supporting efforts to ensure the strategy delivers meaningful benefits to farmers and agri-businesses.

And World Food Programme Country Representative CISSY KABASUUGA said her organisation will work closely with Government to ensure financial inclusion contributes to rural prosperity, food security and sustainable economic growth.