The construction of the Rice Centre of Excellence in Luapula Province has reached 84 percent completion, marking a major step toward boosting Zambia’s rice production and reducing reliance on imported seed. The project, funded through a grant from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is designed to develop suitable rice seed varieties for cultivation in Luapula, Northern, and Muchinga Provinces. JICA representative Shago Takeda said the facility will train 950 farmers annually and will be equipped with irrigation systems to support production amid climate change. ZARI Acting Director Ndashe Kapulu said the key challenge in rice production is the lack of quality seed, adding that with JICA’s support, improved early-generation seed will soon be available. The Rice Centre of Excellence is expected to significantly boost Zambia’s rice value chain by providing affordable, high-quality seed and strengthening the capacity of local farmers.