Zambia has launched a strategic diplomatic mission to Brazil to secure technical cooperation for the development of an agricultural master plan along a key infrastructure project linking Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic coast via the Democratic Republic of Congo.

According to Zambia’s broadcaster, Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane and Agriculture Minister Mtolo Phiri are leading the delegation that is seeking to leverage Brazil’s agricultural expertise and attract investment in agriculture, agro-processing and value chain development to boost productivity along the Lobito Railway Development Corridor.

Musokotwane told the broadcaster that the mission is focused on exchanging knowledge with Brazilian officials to help scale up economic productivity through agriculture.

He said President Hakainde Hichilema has directed the team to prioritise field visits to Brazilian farms and agro-industrial ventures.

The delegation would also meet with key stakeholders to understand Brazil’s investment models and institutional frameworks that have driven its agricultural success.

The Lobito Corridor is viewed as a transformative infrastructure initiative for Zambia’s agriculture-led industrialisation and regional trade expansion.

The corridor’s development is backed by a trilateral partnership between Angola, the DRC and Zambia, with support from international partners such as the World Bank, African Development Bank and Africa Finance Corporation.

Zambia and Brazil have maintained cordial bilateral relations, particularly in agriculture and technical cooperation.

Brazil’s tropical climate and savanna terrain offer a comparable context for Zambia, making it a valuable partner in shaping a sustainable and scalable agricultural blueprint for the Lobito Corridor.

Source - https://apanews.net