Abstract: This policy synthesis highlights some of the key messages contained in the full report with the same title. It aims to summarize the rationale and objectives of the CMA and the possible consequences of adopting the proposed legislation. We also identify alternative or additional...

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of mugaiwa, and the small-scale trading and milling sector that provides it, in ensuring poor consumers’ access to food in the context of this marketing season’s maize deficit. The paper then identifies opportunities for Government and the...

This policy synthesis highlights the key findings and conclusions contained in the full report, “Developments in Fertilizer Marketing in Zambia: Commercial Trading, Government Programs and the Smallholder Farmer.” The key objective of this policy synthesis is to summarize the key findings in...

The debate on fertilizer reform process in Zambia has two contrasting views. Some stakeholders continue to be convinced that the private sector is unable to adequately serve the needs of smallholder farmers, especially in the more remote parts of the country. Only 20 per cent of smallholder...

This report provides an initial assessment of the impact of agricultural commodity taxes levied by local district authorities on the national objectives of food security, poverty alleviation and economic growth. A study was undertaken to provide government with a better understanding of the...

Food relief for vulnerable groups is important in times of deficit. For the remainder of the population, well functioning grain markets can save lives during times of food shortfalls. This note illustrates how predictable Government behavior in the market can improve markets’ ability to meet...

1) Maize prices are rising rapidly in 2008 and are fast approaching import parity levels. 2) Maize traders, millers and farmers all agree that Zambia will likely require imports by early 2009 in order to avoid domestic maize supply shortages. 3) Official food balance sheets appear to have...

Agriculture provides the main support for Zambia’s rural economy, and because of this, growth in the agricultural sector is the clearest avenue through which poverty reduction can be achieved in Zambia. Yet despite widespread recognition of the strong connection between agricultural...