By Tyndale Muchiya
The Agricultural & Commercial Cooperative Society of Zambia Limited (ACCSZ) successfully hosted the 2nd Agro-Input and Machinery Expo from October 3rd to 4th 2025, at the Lusaka Showgrounds. The event, held under the theme “smart farming for a sustainable future,” doubled its exhibitor numbers from the previous year, underscoring its growing significance as a key platform for agricultural advancement in Zambia.
In his address, Society President Dr. Bernard H. Moonga reported that the number of exhibitors had increased to over 40, a twofold rise from the previous year. He said the expanded exhibitor mix included financial companies, insurance providers, seed and fertilizer companies, agro-chemical suppliers, and organizations representing livestock and energy sectors, making the Expo a crucial “one-stop shop” for the agro-sector. The two-day event hosted over 500 farmers and showgoers from districts including Chilanga, Chongwe, and Shibuyunji.
Dr. Moonga emphasized that the agricultural sector is a mass employer, and increasing productivity is vital to attracting youth adsing that the Society is aligning its efforts with the government’s ambitious target of 10 million tonnes of maize, 1 million tonnes of soya, and 1 million tonnes of wheat, along with boosting overall farm profitability.
He said the Expo’s theme highlighted the necessity of adapting to climate change through appropriate technologies such as improved seed varieties, tillage practices, plant health diagnostics, water harvesting, and irrigation. These innovations were showcased for both small-scale and large-scale farmers. To further enhance knowledge transfer, the event featured added seminar and knowledge sharing sessions presented by various experts.
The platform plays a critical role in equipping farmers not only with high-quality inputs but also with cutting-edge agricultural practices and technologies that can increase their yields. It also facilitates access to “holistic agro services” in line with government programs such as the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and the Sustainable Agricultural Financing Facility (SAFF).
Dr Moonga reiterated the Society’s commitment to continue pushing the frontiers of agricultural productivity and profitability for a “more food secure, healthy and prosperous Zambia.”
Speaking at the same event, Vice President and Show Convener for the Agricultural & Commercial Show Society (ACCSZ) W.A.R. Lourens, highlighted the timely nature of the event, with October marking the immediate lead-up to the rainy season. “The rains are just around the corner, and in some areas, they have already started. Everyone is getting ready, and this Expo is therefore the ideal location to market your essential products.”
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo represented by Dr. Ken Msiska Director – Department of plant Quarantine & Phytosanitary services at Mount Makulu Central Research Station, emphasized that the Expo transcended a mere display of products, stating, “This event is not just an exhibition; it is a critical platform for us to share and advance solutions to the challenges that impede progress along our various agricultural value chains.”
Dr. Msiska underscored the immediate necessity of collective action to build agricultural resilience. He noted that challenges stemming from climate change and economic pressure which limits farmers’ access to essential inputs and machinery demand a comprehensive response.
“We are reminded of our duty to mobilize not only financial resources but also human capital to navigate through these obstacles,” the Director asserted. He called upon the assembled representatives governments, innovators, exhibitors, financiers, producers, and development partners to collaborate in transforming these challenges into opportunities.
The 2nd Agro-Input and Machinery Expo served as a powerful testament to the collaborative effort driving agricultural innovation, setting a promising trajectory for Zambia’s food security and economic growth.
