COMACO’s rice processing factory to boost smallholder production
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| A COMACO worker operating the Musika supported rice processing equipment in Serenje shortly after the launch. |
Rice farmers in Central and Muchinga Provinces are set for a huge boost following the launch of a US$100, 000 rice processing facility in Serenje District by Community Markets for Conservation (COMACO) Limited on 8th December, 2016.
Musika supported the procurement of the rice processing equipment in order to enhance efficiency in the rice value chain and increase COMACO’s ability to process greater volumes of high quality rice which will translate into increased household income for a large number of farmers. Musika also supported the company’s efforts in developing networks within the smallholder community to scale up its extension services.
The equipment, which has capacity to mill, process and polish 56 tonnes of rice per day, is expected to assist in addressing the increased demand for a stable, transparent and profitable market for rice that works for both the company and the farmers.
“The factory seeks to source rice from local farmers in Serenje, Chinsali, Shiwangandu and Isoka districts. It is a solution to income security in that farmers will be paid upon delivery of the rice,” COMACO manager for extension and farmer support services Richard Mumba, said during the launch that was witnessed by Chief Chitambo and Chief Kabamba.
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COMACO manager for extension and farmer support |
As part of its overall strategy, Musika supports commodity traders and processors to establish long term commercial relationships with smallholders that involve not just market opportunities but a bundled offering of assured off-take, access to inputs and new technologies and the provision of extension services, for them to invest in their own production and graduate out of poverty.
According to Central Province Agricultural Coordinator, Dr Adreen Nansungwe, the factory will boost government’s effort to diversify Zambia’s agriculture sector.
“As government, we believe that to ensure greater economic stability and growth, we need to develop a sustainable, diversified and competitive agriculture sector,” she said.
Musika managing director, Reuben Banda observed that farmers can be motivated to scale-up production with correct technical information, greater access to quality inputs and a ready market.