VEEP, AGRA PRESIDENT HIGHLIGHT NUTRITION IN ZAMBIA’S AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION
Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango and Alice Ruhweza, President of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), have underscored the central role of nutrition in Zambia’s agricultural transformation agenda.
The two leaders held discussions when Ms. Ruhweza paid a courtesy call on Dr. Nalumango at her office yesterday, focusing on strengthening partnerships to enhance food systems and improve livelihoods.
Dr. Nalumango outlined Zambia’s key priorities in agriculture, including promoting sustainable farming practices, improving national food security, and addressing the growing impacts of climate change. She stressed that nutrition remains a core component of the country’s development strategy.
“Nutrition is a passion for us,” the Vice President said, noting Zambia’s commitment to coordinating nutrition efforts and strengthening disaster management systems. She also sought clarity on AGRA’s broader transformation agenda, particularly in areas such as indigenous food systems and climate-smart agriculture.
Meanwhile, Ms. Ruhweza reflected on AGRA’s 20-year journey since its founding by former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, highlighting the organization’s focus on seed development, sustainable farming methods, and improved nutrition outcomes across Africa.
She pointed to AGRA’s initiatives aimed at promoting diverse and nutrient-rich foods, empowering women farmers, and supporting youth agripreneurs as key pillars of its strategy.
“We need to ensure our food systems prioritize nutrition,” Ms. Ruhweza said, while commending Zambia for progress made in advancing nutrition-focused initiatives.
The engagement follows the recent signing of a host agreement between AGRA and the Zambian Government, a move expected to strengthen collaboration, drive agricultural growth, and address pressing nutrition challenges.
Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of sustained cooperation in achieving food security, improving rural livelihoods, and promoting sustainable development in Zambia and across the African continent.