Ministry Warns Against Recycled Seed as Zambia Targets Record Crop Output

LUSAKA – The Ministry of Agriculture has urged farmers nationwide to plant certified seed and avoid the use of recycled seed as preparations for the 2025/2026 farming season gain momentum.

The call comes as government intensifies efforts to meet ambitious national crop production targets set by President Hakainde Hichilema 10 million metric tonnes of maize, 1 million metric tonnes of soya bean, and 1 million metric tonnes of wheat by 2031.

Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer Balewa Zyuulu said using certified seed is essential to achieving these targets, emphasising that approved seed varieties offer higher germination rates, stronger resilience to pests, diseases, and climate stresses, and ultimately lead to higher yields.

“Certified seed gives farmers a better chance of producing healthy crops that contribute to national food security,” Mr. Zyuulu said.

He warned that recycled seed must not be planted, noting that it often leads to poor germination, reduced productivity, and increased susceptibility to crop diseases challenges that can severely undermine harvest outcomes.

Mr. Zyuulu urged farmers to obtain seed only from registered agro-dealers and accredited companies certified by the Seed Control and Certification Institute (SCCI) to ensure quality and authenticity.

He added that agricultural extension officers will continue offering technical support to help farmers choose seed varieties suitable for their specific agro-ecological regions, reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to guiding farmers toward improved productivity and climate-smart agriculture.

The Ministry has reaffirmed that adopting certified seed is one of the most reliable ways to strengthen Zambia’s food production systems as the country works toward boosting yields and ensuring long-term food security.