ZCS and Rwanda Correctional Service in 10,000 hectares of mechanized farm

The Zambia Correctional Service (ZCS) and Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) have started the process of developing about 10,000 hectares of land into a mechanized farm.

Once in operation, the farm is expected to create hundreds of job opportunities for young people in Muchinga Province and surrounding areas.

Mibanga Farm, which is situated in Senior Chief Nkula’s Chiefdom will be run as a joint venture between the two Services.

Today, the Zambia Correctional Service Commissioner General Mr Fredrick Chilukutu met a delegation from Rwanda Correctional Service at Service Headquarters in Lusaka.

“The Zambia Correctional Service has been proactively working to address the challenges posed by droughts which have significantly impacted agricultural productivity across the country.

“Currently, the Service has 2,260 hectares under 37 centre pivots at seven Correctional farms,” he said.

Mr Chilukutu said the Service, with support from the Government has taken delibarete steps to establish farms in regions with higher rainfall.

“The establishment of Mibanga farm which is a strategic agricultural initiative spanning 10,000 hectares of virgin land of which 5,101 heactars has already been survived and earmarked for agricultural activities,” he said.

The Service Chief said Mibanga farm presents a unique opportunity due to its strategic location and fertile land.

Mr Chilukutu said the farm which is situated off the great North road, boast easy access to major transportation routes which includes Nakonde and Mpulungu in Northern Province.

“Mibanga farm holds great potential for a wide variety of crops, given the region’s climate and fertile soils.

“We anticipate successful cultivation of horticultural crops such as fruits and vegetables, tree crops including various fruit trees and other grains,” he said.

He said the Mibanga farm is located about 198 kilometers from the Zambia – Tanzania border (Nakonde) and that it offers a gateway to export markets in neighbouring countries.

“The Rwanda – Zambia Joint Venture offers several significant benefits. Through this collaboration, we stand to gain from shared expertise and resources, fostering innovation in agricultural practices.

“The Joint Venture will also enhance food security by boosting production capacities, create employment opportunities for local communities and contribute to rural development,” Mr Chilukutu said.

And Rwanda Correctional Service Deputy Commissioner General Ms Rose Muhisoni commended Mr Chilukutu for the warm reception.

Ms Muhisoni said RCS is ready to be part of the Mibanga farm in Muchinga Province.

“It is time to move forward and we are happy for the warm reception and the hospitality,” she said.

Currently, Zambia and Egypt have a joint Venture Project, which have been running since 2006.