In an era of climate change and rapid population growth, the way we produce food has never been more critical. Sustainable agriculture, a farming approach that focuses on producing food in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, offers a solution that balances the need to feed the world with the imperative to protect our environment. At The Harvest Fund, we've seen firsthand how sustainable agriculture can transform lives, particularly for women farmers in Zambia, and contribute to the preservation of our planet.

One of the key ways we practice sustainable agriculture is by ensuring that the women farmers we work with have a healthy environment. This includes providing access to clean water sources, promoting conservation agriculture, and offering training on natural pest control methods. For example, we promote drip irrigation systems to reduce water waste and improve irrigation efficiency. By prioritizing a healthy environment, we can empower women farmers to thrive and contribute to the overall sustainability of our agricultural practices. We teach them about the importance of nutrition and reward them with upcycled clothes and shoes to make their jobs on the farm easier. By prioritizing their well-being, we empower them and ensure their farming practices' sustainability, thereby promoting gender equality in the agricultural sector.

What is sustainable agriculture?

As described by the University of California's Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, sustainable agriculture is a farming approach that focuses on producing food to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It's built on three key pillars: environmental stewardship, economic profitability, and social and economic equity.

Why focus on women farmers in Zambia?

In Zambia, women make up a significant portion of the agricultural workforce, yet they often face unique challenges:

1. Limited access to resources and land
2. Lower levels of education and training
3. Cultural barriers to economic independence

By empowering these women through sustainable agriculture practices, we can address poverty, improve food security, and promote gender equality simultaneously.

Exploration of key techniques in sustainable agriculture

At The Harvest Fund, we implement several practices that are particularly beneficial for women farmers in Zambia:

1. Crop Diversification: We encourage growing various crops to improve soil health and reduce economic risk. Typically, Zambian smallscale farmers focus only on maize, but we assist with cultivating other types of vegetables.
2. Water Management: We introduce efficient irrigation techniques that save time and resources.
3. Climate Smart Agriculture: We promote conservation agriculture methods that reduce reliance on expensive chemical inputs.
4. Agroforestry: Through the USAID Local Climate Action Innovation Zambia, we integrate each cooperative's farm with trees that provide soil fertilization and environmental benefits.

Benefits of sustainable agriculture for African women

Moreover, we strive to make farming profitable for these women. By providing them with the necessary resources and training, we enable them to generate income to support their families and communities. This motivates future generations to stay in farming and allows the women to afford essentials like nutritious food, school supplies, and clothing for their children.

Additionally, we are committed to promoting social and economic equality throughout the entire value chain. We ensure gender balance at all levels of our organization and support small, local, woman-owned nurseries by purchasing our seedlings from them. We create a sustainable agricultural system and support the local economy by selling our vegetables to local restaurants, stores, and markets.

Challenges and solutions with smallholder farmers

Implementing sustainable agriculture in Zambia isn't without challenges:

1. Initial Investment: We install a solar-powered water pump connected to a hose for each cooperative. This new irrigation system reduces the time spent collecting water and any wastage from bucket watering. However, it is an expensive investment.
2. Cultural Barriers: We work with community leaders, such as local chiefs and representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, to build trust with each cooperative
3. Market Access: The women farmers are often semi-literate, so we spend a lot of time liaising with potential buyers. Eventually, we strengthen their confidence so they can negotiate with buyers independently.

Sustainable agriculture goes beyond farming

Sustainable agriculture is more than just a farming method; it's a powerful tool for empowering women, fighting poverty, and protecting the environment. In Zambia, we're seeing how it can transform lives and communities. By supporting sustainable agriculture and women farmers, we can create a more equitable, food-secure future for all. This commitment to equity and responsibility is what drives our mission.

At The Harvest Fund, we believe in the power of sustainable agriculture to change lives. Join us in our mission to empower women farmers in Zambia and create lasting change. Together, we can cultivate a better future.