Zambia has warned to crack down on officials accused of scamming farmers who are supposed to profit from its electronic voucher scheme, an essential tool for agricultural input distribution.
The scheme is a key component of the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and was expedited to protect farmers against rampant theft associated with cash-based schemes, as well as delays in distribution.
However, it has been discovered that certain members of the community who are unfamiliar with technology, such as mobile phones, are falling victim to unscrupulous officials.
Levy Ngoma, special assistant to president Hakainde Hichilema on Political Affairs, said the administration had received such complaints, particularly from elderly women.
“Officials who take advantage of farmers’ lack of familiarity with technology will be dealt with accordingly,” Ngoma assured farmers on Thursday.
“The administration will not tolerate the exploitation of citizens who are meant to benefit from government programmes."
Implemented across all 116 districts of the country this farming season, the e-voucher scheme—and FISP broadly—is part of government efforts to boost agricultural production and diversify the economy away from an over-reliance on copper.
The e-voucher, which is based on the Zambia Integrated Agricultural Management Information System, leverages mobile technology to enhance input distribution efficiency.
The initiative not only simplifies access to inputs but also reduces opportunities for corruption and delays, ensuring that farmers—especially those in rural areas—can receive seeds, fertilisers, and other essential resources in a timely manner
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