Zambia clamps down on graft around e-voucher system

by ARNOLD MULENGA
LUSAKA – ZAMBIA has threatened to crack down on government officers accused of defrauding farmers who are meant to benefit from its electronic voucher scheme, a key tool for the disbursement of agricultural inputs.

The scheme forms a central part of the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and was accelerated by the current administration to shield farmers from the widespread theft associated with cash-based schemes, as well as from delays in disbursement.

However, it has emerged that some members of the community who are not familiar with technology, such as mobile phones, have been falling prey 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,” he further warned.

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, anchored in the Zambia Integrated Agricultural Management Information System (ZIAMIS), uses mobile technology to streamline the distribution of inputs.

Qualifying farmers pay a deposit, which is supplemented by government support.

Farmers can then make purchases at registered dealers once the process is complete.

For the 2025/2026 farming season, the government has allocated K6 billion (US$302.5 million) to support FISP.

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.

Experts note that technology-driven programmes like the e-voucher system can significantly enhance agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, and promote inclusive growth, as they empower farmers to make informed decisions while limiting intermediaries who might exploit them.

By tackling corruption in agricultural schemes, the administration is signalling a commitment to transparency and accountability, while also encouraging broader adoption of digital tools across the sector.

– CAJ News