Serenje, Zambia – The Zambia National Correctional Service’s Nansanga Facility is set to harvest approximately 2,500 metric tons of maize from its 500-hectare maize field, in a move aimed at bolstering national food security. 28th March,2025
In addition to maize, the facility has successfully cultivated 20 hectares of soya beans and 2 hectares of tomatoes among several other crops.
The maize yield is expected to be sold to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s grain reserves.
District Commissioner Paul Masuwa and Council Chairperson Staivous Mulumba inspected the large-scale farming initiative on Wednesday, accompanied by District Agricultural Coordinator (DACO) Katumwa Mutandi. They were received by Nansanga Correctional Facility Commander, Deputy Commissioner Enias Mbao.
After the inspection, Deputy Commissioner Mbao emphasized that the expansion aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive for uniformed personnel to contribute towards national food security, particularly in response to the drought experienced in the previous farming season.
Mr. Masuwa reiterated the government’s commitment to increasing maize production, stating that Nansanga Correctional Facility is playing a critical role in achieving the targets set by the New Dawn administration.
“This project is a clear demonstration of our commitment to ensuring food security, even in challenging farming seasons,” he said.
Mr. Mulumba commended the correctional facility for expanding its production, noting that the initiative will help cushion the effects of last season’s drought.
“The expansion of maize and other crops is a step in the right direction, as it will contribute to national grain reserves and stabilize food supplies,” Mulumba stated.
With agricultural production at Nansanga Correctional Facility gaining momentum, the initiative is expected to contribute not only to food security but also to skills development among inmates, reinforcing the broader goal of rehabilitation through productive engagement in farming.
Meanwhile, DACO informed the District Commissioner and Council Chairperson that Serenje District is one of the largest producers of agricultural produce such as sweet potatoes at the national level.
