Large-scale rice farming is set to kickoff in the Northern Province, as part of efforts to bridge unemployment gap.
British firm Commodities Management Research Global Limited and Mungwi Farming Corporation have invested over US$50 to fund a rice plantation.
The project will produce 16,000 tonnes of rice per farming season in two seasons per year.
The company intends to grow over 30,000 tonnes of rice annually, is anticipated to create over 4,000 jobs and contribute to rice production in the country.
Arnold Musonda, Mungwi Farming Corporation Manager said the project has already applied for 26,000 hectares.
“We are just waiting for the land lease from the Ministry of Lands to start production.
According to Musonda, the company intends to start producing rice as the major commodity in Mungwi in Malole, Northern Province.
The project’s target is to satisfy both the local and foreign market including America, Europe and the Great Lakes Region, among other markets through an out-grower scheme.
He scheme will also provide farmers with technical skills and mechanisation during production.
The initiative is a response to Paramount Chief Chitimukulu’s call on locals to partner with investors to develop the area through creation of jobs and wealth.
