the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a commitment of $66.8 million to bolster food security and resilience across the country. This funding was disclosed by Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman during a press briefing today, emphasizing the United States’ dedication to assisting Zambia through a multifaceted approach.
Zambia is currently grappling with a severe drought, resulting in crop losses ranging from 60 to 95 percent and an alarming 83 percent spike in maize prices. In response, USAID will allocate $20 million in urgent humanitarian aid through various implementing partners to provide immediate relief. This assistance aims to complement the existing $9.5 million food security aid to foster inclusive and sustained agricultural-led economic growth.
USAID’s long-term strategy includes an additional $5 million investment aimed at enhancing Zambia’s agricultural productivity and nutrition while helping producers manage future shocks. This funding will support over 460,000 people by providing essential food, market-based assistance, and agricultural aid.
For more than a decade, Feed the Future has been a pivotal player in the global fight against hunger, poverty, and malnutrition. The initiative’s latest effort, the Feed the Future Accelerator, focuses on regions with high need and significant growth potential. Zambia, identified for its committed government and dynamic private sector, is a key participant in this initiative. The goal is to drive inclusive agricultural transformation and enhance regional trade and market linkages, promoting Zambia as a regional breadbasket.
In conjunction with USAID’s funding announcement, the Zambian government and USAID unveiled a collaborative Global Food Security Strategy. This plan addresses the critical link between food security and external shocks such as conflicts, trade disruptions, and extreme weather events. Key components of the strategy include investments in drought-tolerant seeds, improved water management, and advanced weather forecasting. These measures aim to strengthen food systems through market-led solutions and foster private agricultural sector growth.
In addition to drought response funding, USAID will provide $32.3 million to enhance resilience in various sectors in Zambia. This includes $11 million for ongoing resilience activities, $9.3 million for water, sanitation, and hygiene programs, and $8.5 million to support macroeconomic stability and create a conducive policy environment for business, trade, and investment. Recognizing the importance of good governance, USAID also announced $3.5 million to support public financial management reform and domestic revenue mobilization.
Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman highlighted the critical nature of this support, stating, “The resilience and determination of Zambian smallholder farmers in the face of such severe drought is inspiring. USAID is committed to providing the necessary resources to help these communities not just survive but thrive.”
Zambian Minister of Agriculture, Michael Katambo, expressed gratitude, saying, “This substantial support from USAID is a beacon of hope for our farmers and communities. It will significantly enhance our capacity to withstand the current crisis and build a more resilient agricultural sector for the future.”
This comprehensive support from USAID underscores a robust partnership with Zambia, focusing on immediate relief and long-term strategies to build a resilient and food-secure future.
