Listening to the Farmers: Australian Regenerative Agriculture and Livestock Delegation to Zambia
PART 4 IN A BLOG SERIES BY CEO CAROLYN HALL ON HER VISIT TO ZAMBIA IN JULY, 2024.
Touring Panuka Farm (pictured above)
We saw the emerging development of high-value horticultural crops at Panuka Farm in Chibombo, driven by CEO, Bruno Mweemba. This innovative farming operation is also delivering business education to farmers, reflecting Brunbo’s extensive qualifications and experience in finance and governance. We discussed positioning Panuka as a demonstration farm to set an example for regional farmers. Panuka's partners include Shoprite and Pick n Pay, and their solar-powered irrigation system mitigates grid energy reliance and load-shedding disruptions.
We also witnessed firsthand a fully diversified small holding at EllySam Farms in Chongwe with maize, vegetables and small-scale aquaculture. CEO Elly Siakasasa Mtaja is grappling with the devastating drought that has resulted in a failed maize crop, significant financial losses and drained working capital.
Touring Elly Sam Farms in Chongwe (pictured above)
We also witnessed firsthand a fully diversified small holding at EllySam Farms in Chongwe with maize, vegetables and small-scale aquaculture. CEO Elly Siakasasa Mtaja is grappling with the devastating drought that has resulted in a failed maize crop, significant financial losses and drained working capital.
Agriculture and the Zambia Correctional Services (pictured above)
We were honoured to meet Director General Fredrick Chilukutu at the Zambia Correctional Centre, which manages over 38 farms producing approximately 3,500 tonnes of maize annually. This initiative rehabilitates inmates by teaching them agricultural practices. We visited one of their farms in Mwomboshi and discussed agricultural practices, soil health and the costs of synthetic inputs.
Community gathering in Sikaunswe (pictured above)
Our delegation joined a large gathering of community members and farmers in the drought-affected Sikaunswe area in the Kazungula District. This community has been devastated by the drought losing crops and livestock due to water scarcity. The community warmly welcomed the delegation and was eager to learn from Australia’s experience with drought.