In a nation where agriculture forms the backbone of the economy, Zambia is taking decisive steps to safeguard its food security and bolster its resilience against the escalating threats of climate change. Spearheaded by the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), a transformative shift towards sustainable agricultural practices is underway, with a focus on agroecology.
Recognizing the vulnerability of Zambian agriculture to climatic shocks, CIFOR-ICRAF, with support from the Agroecology TPP, is championing initiatives that promote environmentally sound farming methods. A pivotal development is the National Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategy for Fall Armyworm, set for launch in November 2024. This strategy aims to wean farmers off harmful chemical pesticides, embracing instead natural pest control mechanisms that protect both crops and the environment.
“This initiative will strengthen farmers’ resilience in key areas, including nutrition, pest control and soil fertility,” emphasized David Chikoye, IITA Regional Coordinator. He underscored the strategy’s role in equipping farmers to withstand climate-induced challenges like droughts and floods.
Complementing this effort is the National Crop Diversification Strategy, which advocates for diversified cropping systems to enhance food security and climate resilience. By promoting practices such as crop rotation and agroforestry, the strategy aims to improve soil health, reduce pest infestations, and mitigate the impact of climatic shocks.
Zambia’s Minister of Agriculture, Reuben Mtolo, highlighted the importance of diversifying food sources, stating, “We have faced food-related challenges, including widespread malnutrition due to a maize-dominated diet. This strategy will help the country produce a more varied and nutritious food supply.”
A recent CIFOR-ICRAF study, supported by NORAD, has further solidified the benefits of sustainable practices. The research revealed that smallholder farmers employing intercropping, mulching, and agroforestry techniques were more successful in fostering natural pest enemies, including those targeting the fall armyworm. This aligns with WHO recommendations advocating for the use of synthetic pesticides only as a last resort.
“Many natural enemies of pests, including the fall armyworm, inhabit and thrive within farming landscapes,” explained Professor Harrison. “Farmers can leverage these beneficial organisms to mitigate crop damage while reducing dependency on chemical interventions.”
CIFOR-ICRAF Zambia is fostering a collaborative approach, working with government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and local communities to drive the adoption of agroecological methods. By promoting agroforestry, integrated pest management, and crop diversification, the organization is advancing biodiversity, improving soil health, and bolstering climate resilience. This multi-stakeholder approach ensures that policies and programs are tailored to local conditions, making agroecology a viable and scalable solution for rural communities across Zambia.
