Zambia is expected to record another bumper maize harvest this season, helping to strengthening food security prospects and raising hopes for lower food prices and increased regional exports.
According to the country’s latest crop forecasting survey, maize production for the 2025/2026 farming season is projected to reach about 4.9 million metric tons, marking one of the strongest harvests in Zambia’s history.
The projected output follows another strong agricultural season supported by favorable rainfall, improved planting conditions and government backed farming support programmes.
The expected harvest would leave Zambia with a substantial maize surplus above domestic consumption needs, allowing the country to expand exports to neighboring countries facing grain shortages and food supply pressures.
Agriculture remains a critical sector in Zambia’s economy, employing a large share of the population and playing a major role in food inflation, rural incomes and economic stability.
Officials and analysts say the bumper harvest could help reduce pressure on food prices, especially for mealie meal, one of the country’s staple foods. Lower maize prices may also help ease broader inflation pressures on households already facing high living costs.
The strong production outlook is especially significant after severe drought conditions previously affected parts of southern Africa, disrupting crop yields and food supply chains across the region.
Regional demand for maize remains high, with countries such as Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zimbabwe and Malawi expected to remain important markets for Zambian grain exports.
The government is also expected to increase strategic grain reserves through the Food Reserve Agency as part of efforts to strengthen national food security and stabilize future supply shocks.
Despite the positive outlook, analysts warn that storage capacity, transport logistics and post harvest losses remain key challenges that could affect how much of the harvest ultimately reaches domestic and export markets efficiently.
Economists say continued investment in irrigation, climate resilient farming and agricultural infrastructure will be important if Zambia hopes to sustain strong harvests amid growing climate uncertainty across southern Africa.
The projected harvest further reinforces Zambia’s position as one of the region’s major maize producers and a potentially important supplier within Africa’s evolving food trade system.
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Emmanuel Abara Benson is a business journalist and editor covering artificial intelligence, global markets, and emerging technology.
He has previously worked with Business Insider Africa and Nairametrics, reporting on finance, startups, and innovation.
His work focuses on AI, digital economy, and global tech trends.
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