Zambia launches soil partnership and farmer training program to educate local farmers

Zambia has launched a national soil partnership and a farmer training program to strengthen soil management and agricultural productivity, with support from international partners. The Zambia Soil Partnership and the Global Soil Doctors Programme were introduced in Lusaka as part of the Soil Mapping for Resilient Agrifood Systems initiative, funded by the United States and Japan.

The programs aim to improve coordination among government, research institutions and private sector players while equipping farmers and extension agents with practical tools to assess soil health and optimize fertilizer use. A soil moisture monitoring station was also inaugurated at the University of Zambia to enhance data collection and soil analysis capacity.

The initiatives come as Zambia faces declining soil fertility and land degradation, challenges that have weighed on crop yields and rural livelihoods. Authorities and partners said the programs are intended to support more productive and resilient agrifood systems, strengthen value chains and expand market opportunities through improved soil management practices.

Sources: Africa.com