CFU signed a Sub-Grant on 13th December 2023 with the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT) to implement the Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) in January 2024. The focus is on promoting increased resilience of smallholder farmers in food production amidst the impacts of climate change.
The programme is working in Central and Southern provinces in 12 Districts (Central province – Chibombo, Kapiri, Mumbwa, Ngabwe, Luano, Serenje and Shibuyunji and in Southern province – Chikankata, Mazabuka, Monze, Kalomo and Zimba)
The net results expected from this project are:
- Adoption of Conservation Agriculture Practices among smallholder farmers increased – The program has focused on improving productivity through the promotion of Climate Smart Agricultural Technologies and Practices using the CFU-tested Lead Farmer model. In this regard, the program has embarked on a robust training program open to all farmers but with special emphasis on the beneficiaries of inputs under the Government of Zambia’s Farmer Input Support Program to ensure that these inputs are used effectively and efficiently. Our Advisory Services are ongoing during and after the growing season to both farmers and Government extension officers. Farmers with access to water are trained in off-season vegetable production for improved household nutrition and additional income.
- Post-harvest handling and Storage improved – In Zambia, post-harvest losses are estimated to average 30% of harvested grain. The program promotes improved post-harvest management practices to secure food quality, reduce losses, increase incomes and improve knowledge on nutrition security. CFU has partnered with manufacturers of Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags to promote safe crop storage.
- Use of Mechanisation among Smallholder farmers increased – Promotion of appropriate Mechanisation at different production levels of the selected value chain has increased to improve efficiency. This continues to be done through the promotion of Mechanised Service Provisions such as Tillage Service Providers, Shelling Service Providers, on-farm value addition, etc.
- Awareness of and availability of Improved Seed Increased – The CFU has partnered with local seed companies to carry out Mega demonstrations to expose the farmers to suitable varieties for their localities. In addition, the ongoing collaborations with partners such as Kagezi Seeds, Good Nature Agro, Afriseed, Zamseed, and Farmer Outgrower Foundation have been extended to different districts to encourage local production of legume seeds such as Cowpeas, Groundnuts and Beans to ensure local availability. The program has continued to identify and train local Seed Producers with access to irrigation and link them to pre-arranged off-takers and local networks. This is aimed at reducing the challenge of availability and access to improved and high-quality seeds among most smallholder farmers.
- Market linkages and access to finance for target value chains strengthened – The CFU Financial Literacy and Business training aims to improve farm income through improved marketing of surplus produce by aggregation, bulk input acquisition, and contract farming. During training sessions, input suppliers, off-takers, financial institutions, and Lease financing companies for Farm Mechanisation are always invited to interact with farmers and discuss the services they offer to establish business relations.
