Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP)
The Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) initiated the Fertilizer Support Programme (FSP) in 2002, which was subsequently renamed the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) in 2009. The primary aim of FISP is to improve the accessibility of agricultural inputs for small-scale farmers at a reduced cost, thereby enhancing their productivity. Furthermore, the program strives to bolster the involvement and competitiveness of the private sector in the supply and distribution of these inputs.
FISP is now operational across all ten provinces and 116 districts of Zambia. The selection of beneficiaries, who are reviewed annually, follows criteria set by the Ministry of Agriculture. To enhance the efficiency and impact of FISP, the Government operationalized the Zambia Integrated Agricultural Management Information System (ZIAMIS) during the 2017/18 agricultural season.
This system facilitates the electronic registration of beneficiaries, suppliers, and agro-dealers, and manages farmer contributions, government support, insurance payouts, and the redemption of inputs.
The implementation of FISP utilizes two main modalities, with a gradual transition planned to the latter to optimize efficiency:
1. Direct Input Supply (DIS): Under this approach, the government directly procures and pre-positions agricultural inputs across various districts.
2. Electronic Vouchers (eVoucher): This modality encourages private sector involvement in the redemption of inputs.
eVoucher Modality of the Farmer Input Support Programme
Welcome to the Electronic Voucher (eVoucher) modality of the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), a key initiative designed to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of agricultural input distribution in Zambia. The eVoucher system modernizes the way smallholder farmers receive support by utilizing digital technology to streamline the redemption process. Through the eVoucher system, eligible farmers are issued electronic vouchers that can be redeemed for various agricultural inputs at registered agro-dealers. This method not only expedites the distribution process but also promotes transparency and accountability. Additionally, it empowers farmers by giving them the flexibility to choose the inputs that best suit their agricultural needs. The eVoucher system is part of our ongoing efforts to innovate and improve agricultural support mechanisms in Zambia, ensuring that resources are delivered effectively to those who need them most.
The Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF)
Access a low interest farming loan to cultivate upto 5 ha of crop
The Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF) is an innovative initiative designed to empower Zambia's small-scale farmers by providing them with access to essential financial resources. Established with the goal of enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability, SAFF aims to bridge the financing gap that smallholder farmers often face, enabling them to invest in better farming techniques, purchase necessary inputs, and ultimately increase their crop yields.
At the heart of SAFF is our commitment to fostering economic growth and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers through tailored financial solutions. By collaborating with financial institutions, government bodies, and agricultural experts, SAFF offers a range of financing options that are accessible and affordable. Our objective is to ensure that smallholder farmers have the financial support they need to thrive in today’s competitive agricultural sector.
We invite you to explore the opportunities provided by the Smallholder Agriculture Financing Facility and join us in transforming the agricultural landscape of Zambia. Together, we can build a more prosperous future for our farmers and the nation as a whole.
Why apply for a SAFF loan?
Affordability
Non-collateral low interest rate loan
Choice
Get your quality inputs from your preferred agro-dealer in your area
Participating banks
Currently; ABSA, Atlas Mara, Natsave, Indo Zambia & Zanaco
Assured Market
Sale your produce to an FRA depot closest to you
Eligibility for the SAFF
- Must be a Zambian citizen with a green NRC
- In posession of land, or be able to rent from 1-5ha of arable land
- Should be a registered farmer through our extension staff
- Should have a traceable farming record of not less than 2 years
- Possession of physical assets
- SMEs should be registered with ZRA and PACRA
Contact your DACO
Do you Qualify?
Providing loans with favorable terms to farmers and agricultural businesses that adopt sustainable practices.
Direct Input Supply (DIS) Modality of the Farmer Input Support Programme
Welcome to the Direct Input Supply (DIS) component of the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), a government-led initiative that plays a pivotal role in supporting Zambia's agricultural sector. The DIS approach is primarily managed by the government, ensuring a direct and effective distribution of agricultural inputs to smallholder farmers across the country.
Under the DIS model, the government procures essential farming inputs and strategically pre-positions them in various districts, facilitating timely and equitable access for eligible farmers. This method emphasizes governmental oversight and coordination, guaranteeing the quality of inputs provided. In this regard, farmers receive a pre-determined input pack to cultivate a prescribed hectarage of crop.
The Direct Input Supply model is designed to streamline the process of input distribution, minimize logistical challenges, and ensure that smallholder farmers receive the necessary support to enhance their productivity and sustainability. Through DIS, we are committed to strengthening the agricultural framework of Zambia and supporting the backbone of our economy—our farmers.
