CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE
Dr. Oliver Kandela Bulaya, PhD
08/04/2025
Bayer’s partnership with the conservation farming unit: A commitment to sustainable agriculture.
TODAY marks the 150th edition of our weekly articles, a confirmation of our passion and our dedication over the past three years to educating smallholder farmers. We extend our gratitude to the Mast newspaper for providing a platform that empowers us to build the capacity of farmers, helping them transition to self-sustaining and commercially viable operations. This partnership is pivotal in transforming the agricultural landscape in Zambia and beyond.
In our previous edition, we highlighted the significance of the Itaba Seed Plant, recently launched by Bayer in Zambia. This facility plays a vital role not only in Sub-Saharan Africa but also in addressing global challenges posed by climate change. Africa possesses the resources and talent necessary to achieve food security; however, the continent’s challenges must be addressed by its own people. With a wealth of researchers and scientists, Africa can develop innovative solutions to many agricultural issues.
To create a thriving environment for private sector players like Bayer, African governments must implement supportive policies. Just as mining companies benefit from tax incentives, agricultural enterprises should receive similar encouragement to boost the local economies of Africa through exports. There has been substantial research and numerous conferences focused on agricultural innovations in Africa. It is crucial to shift our perspective from reliance on foreign aid to fostering opportunities that empower local private sectors.
Bayer has recognized its role in addressing food insecurity while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty, zero hunger, Industry innovation and infrastructure, Climate action and many more. By partnering with the Conservation Farming Unit (CFU), Bayer is actively tackling the climate crisis through various interventions. The CFU plays a key role in promoting conservation agriculture and climate-smart practices, enhancing productivity and sustainability and curbing food insecurity
Hybrid seeds and effective crop protection are essential components of this strategy. Bayer provides drought-tolerant seeds and solutions for pest and fungal diseases, including weed management, besides its rich history in production of medicines. Hybrid seeds are NOT GMOs. They are produced by cross-pollinating two different parent plants to create a new variety with desirable traits, such as higher yield, disease resistance, or improved flavour. The hybridization process involves traditional breeding techniques and does not involve altering the plant’s DNA at a molecular level. GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques, such as CRISPR or recombinant DNA technology. This involves directly modifying the DNA of the plant to introduce specific traits, such as pest resistance or herbicide tolerance, which may not be possible through traditional breeding and Zambian Laws does not support this.
The CFU effectively generates demand among small and medium-scale farmers through its innovative lead farmer model and a network of community agro-dealers. These agro dealers act as hubs, reaching thousands of local farmers and bolstering seed distribution. Furthermore, the CFU has established a robust network of Tillage Service Providers (TSPs) to promote mechanized tillage. This initiative enhances farm operations by utilizing precise farm implements and machinery, thereby increasing efficiency. Bayer’s commitment to community upliftment is evident through its social responsibility initiatives and support for local NGOs.
The CFU encourages the adoption of climate-smart practices, such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, and residue retention. These methods not only improve soil health but also enhance yields and promote long-term sustainability. By supporting the use of climate-resilient seeds and mechanization, the CFU establishes community agro-dealers and conducts demonstration plots to showcase effective farming techniques.
The partnership between Bayer and the Conservation Farming Unit epitomizes a collaborative approach to addressing the pressing challenges of food insecurity and climate change. By empowering local farmers and fostering innovation, this initiative not only enhances agricultural productivity but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainable development in Africa. CFU with its 28 years’ experience offering numerous solutions to farmers including market linkages, provides a wealthy experience of extension delivery.
Ou call to our farmers is that lets support Bayer!
Our voice shall be heard. We live today to impact tomorrow. Stop deforestation and forest degradation. Act against climate change. Together we can! Environmental and Biodiversity protection is key to sustainable development. Arise Zambia Agriculture A sleeping Economic Giant Campaign.
The author is an expert in Climate-Smart Agriculture, Organizational Leadership and Project Management. He serves as the Projects and Communications Coordinator at the Conservation Farming Unit and is the Executive Director of the Agriculture Climate Action Foundation. For feedback, send comments to: acafoundationzambia@gmail or WhatsApp: +260-956-261174.
