CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE

Dr. Oliver Kandela Bulaya

Key pillars for achieving higher agricultural productivity by 2027

Adopt eco friendly farming practices

Biodiversity & Enviromental Protection is key to sustainable development.Stop deforestation and forest degradation

ZAMBIA envisions increased agricultural production and productivity by 2027. This is a vital goal; without a clear vision, progress becomes elusive. As our population grows, we face numerous challenges that have hindered the agricultural sector’s growth for years. How can we navigate these obstacles and emerge stronger? Currently, agriculture’s contribution to GDP is significantly lower than that of the mining sector.

As agricultural experts, it is crucial to change this narrative, focusing on the advancement of smallholder farmers. The percentage of smallholder farmers has remained stagnant over the years, while the numbers for emergent and large-scale farmers are also low. This indicates the need for concerted efforts across all fronts. While policy provides a solid roadmap, effective implementation is essential for driving change.

We seek to transform agricultural practices among both large-scale and small-scale farmers, as they all support the government’s ambitious plan to increase maize production by 10 million metric tonnes and wheat and soy production by 1 million metric tonnes.

In 2025, Zambia achieved an impressive maize yield of over 3.6 million metric tonnes, although the production of soybeans saw a decline. But this is not the first time. This fluctuation in crop yields over the years can largely be attributed NOT only to climate variability but poor farming methods by smallholder farmers.

To meet the ambitious goal of increasing maize yields to 10 million metric tonnes by 2027, a concerted effort is required through targeted government policies and sustainable agricultural practices.

Identifying and addressing gaps

The government’s Farmer Input Support Program (FISIP) is a well-intentioned initiative aimed at supporting smallholder farmers. However, issues of corruption have undermined its effectiveness, eroding the benefits that should reach the farmers. To combat this, the government is rolling out an e-voucher platform designed to enhance transparency and ensure that resources are directed to the right beneficiaries.

Importantly, participation in this program should mandate farmers to adopt sustainable practices rooted in climate-smart agriculture and regenerative methods. These approaches not only contribute to improved yields but also ensure long-term soil health and ecosystem resilience. The financing facility (SAAF) is another vital tool for supporting farmers. However, its success hinges on effective targeting and extensive sensitization to ensure that genuine farmers benefit.

There is a risk that individuals who do not engage in farming may exploit the system, which could jeopardize the program’s objectives and repayment rates.To mitigate these risks, it is essential to invest in effective extension services and monitoring mechanisms. Extension officers play a crucial role in providing guidance and support to farmers, ensuring that government policies are implemented effectively and that farmers are held accountable for their performance.CEEC is also adding support to farmers through irrigation and mechisation component.

Strategies for farmers increasing productivity

As the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) pays farmers, it is crucial that they reinvest these funds into early purchases of seeds and fertilizers. Buying inputs early, when prices are still reasonable and supplies are ample, can prevent farmers from falling prey to unscrupulous dealers who may flood the market with inferior products later in the year. Engaging into regenerative and climate-smart agriculture is essential for increasing production and productivity without expanding land area.

These methods focus on enhancing soil health, conserving water, and increasing biodiversity, allowing farmers to produce more while minimizing their environmental impact. Implementing early warning systems is vital for enabling farmers to respond effectively to climate-related challenges. Providing timely information about weather patterns and potential risks, these systems can help farmers make informed decisions about planting and resource management.

Government and private sector partneships

Expanding the production of seeds and fertilisers domestically can significantly benefit Zambia’s agricultural sector. Government has done well in this aspect but we need to do more to attract more investments. Flooding the local market with affordable inputs before exporting to regional markets will ensure that farmers have access to the resources they need at competitive prices.

Increased local production can also stimulate competition and drive down costs.The regional markets present an opportunity for farmers to benefit from better pricing structures. Currently, the FRA offers competitive prices compared to the private sector, which often purchases at lower rates. For farmers to achieve higher productivity, it is vital that the private sector adopts cost-reflective pricing that rewards farmers for their efforts and investments.Access to markets and passing on the benefits to smallholder farmers.

The journey toward sustainable agricultural productivity in Zambia is challenging but achievable. All the players in the sector must coexist addressing the existing gaps in policy implementation, investing in modern farming practices, and ensuring fair market conditions, Zambia can not only meet its yield targets but also secure the future of its agricultural sector in the face of climate variability. We are remaining only with two years to evaluate our performance tiowrds this target. We shouldnt fail we have what it takes to take holistic approaches.

It is essential for all stakeholders—including government, farmers, and the private sector—to collaborate in fostering an environment that promotes sustainability and resilience. With focused efforts, Zambia can transform its agricultural landscape, ensuring food security and economic stability for years to come.

Keep reading the Mast for the must transformation of the agricultural sector in Zambia. This column is about smallholder farmers Growth through Knowledge sharing and deepening adoption of Climate Smart /Regenerative Agriculture.

Our voice shall be heard. We live today to impact tomorrow. Act against climate change. Together we can! Biodiversity and Environmental protection key to sustanable development. Arise Zambia Agriculture A sleeping Economic Giant Campaign.

The author is an expert in Climate-Smart Agriculture, Organizational Leadership and Project Management. He is the founding Executive Director of the Agriculture Climate Action Foundation. For feedback, send comments to: acafoundationzambia@gmail or WhatsApp: +260-956-261174.