Zambia turns to digital tools to boost farm productivity

ZAMBIA – Zambia has stepped up its use of digital technology to help meet its ambitious agricultural production targets.

The government hopes that digital skills will help farmers improve yields and reduce losses while supporting national goals to produce 10 million tons of maize, 1 million tons of wheat, and 1 million tons of soybeans every year by 2031.

The Ministry of Agriculture launched a new training program this week to teach agricultural extension officers essential digital skills. These officers will learn how to collect real-time data, register farmers, track pests and diseases, and share timely information with producers.

The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) is supporting the program by providing tablets loaded with agricultural applications.

“This training gives our officers the tools they need to serve farmers better,” said Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo during the launch. “These innovations help make agriculture in Zambia more efficient, transparent, and inclusive. We are using technology to empower farmers and prepare a resilient, future-oriented sector.”

The training addresses issues highlighted in a 2022 ZICTA study, which found that low access to ICT equipment, poor connectivity, and limited digital literacy were slowing digital adoption in agriculture. ZICTA has already distributed 550 tablets to agricultural officers across twenty districts to improve access to digital tools.

Technology for a modern farm economy

The government has already introduced several digital platforms to support farmers. These include the Agri-Food Market Information System, which shares market and price updates; the Agricultural Input Support Scheme’s e-voucher platform; and the Zambia Electronic Single Window, which allows online applications for import and export permits.

Two weeks ago, Zambia also sought World Bank support to strengthen the country’s digital skills, focusing on workers in both agriculture and mining. Authorities hope that broader digital training will open up new economic opportunities while supporting local industries.

According to the GSMA report “Driving Digitalisation of the Economy in Zambia: Leveraging Policy Reforms,” digital technology could generate 28.64 billion kwacha for the economy by 2028.

The organization estimates that digital tools could raise farm yields by up to 20%, increase profits by as much as 23%, and add one billion kwacha in value to the economy, equivalent to 0.14% of GDP. These improvements could create about 300,000 jobs and add 250 million kwacha in tax revenue.

The agricultural sector currently accounts for 23% of Zambia’s jobs but contributes only 3% to the national GDP, according to data from the Zambia Statistics Agency.

The government hopes that stronger digital systems will help narrow that gap and turn farming into a more productive and profitable part of the economy.

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