Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 26th February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambian.
In a significant step toward strengthening agricultural resilience, the Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, has secured an insurance payout of K108,125,423 from ZSIC General Insurance Limited. This financial relief package is set to benefit 63,270 small-scale farmers under the Food Security Pack (FSP) programme, whose crops were devastated during the 2023/24 farming season.
The payout follows an assessment of claims under the Harvest Season Area Index and Germination Index, which confirmed that the farming season was severely impacted by El Niño-induced drought conditions. Reduced rainfall, soaring temperatures, and prolonged dry spells significantly impaired crop production, while pest infestations—including locusts, armyworms, and termites—further compounded losses despite mitigation efforts.
Farmers will receive compensation amounts ranging from K400 to K2,500, depending on the extent of their losses.
Permanent Secretary, Ms. Angela Kawandami, emphasized that the disbursement will provide much-needed relief to struggling farmers, helping them recover from the financial strain of crop failure and sustain their agricultural activities.
“This insurance payout is a critical lifeline for our farmers who have faced unprecedented challenges due to climate change. The New Dawn Government remains committed to protecting small-scale farmers and ensuring food security in the wake of adverse weather conditions,” she stated.
The Ministry, in collaboration with ZSIC General Insurance, has assured farmers of a transparent and efficient distribution process, ensuring that funds reach beneficiaries without delays.
This initiative aligns with Zambia’s broader strategy to strengthen climate resilience in the agricultural sector. As climate change continues to pose challenges, the government is prioritizing risk management solutions, including weather-based insurance schemes, sustainable farming practices, and early-warning systems to safeguard livelihoods.
By securing this payout, the New Dawn Government reinforces its commitment to building a sustainable agricultural economy, ensuring that smallholder farmers remain productive despite environmental uncertainties.
The Agency
It’s welcome move. How will the government determine the loses people made in the previous season?
Does it mean that only those under fisp or even those who are not registered under fisp?
How will the government going to identify true farms and those who are just pretending as farms?
Are we all going to benefit as long you are a farmer but not under fisp?