New Soil Initiative to Boost Farmers’ Yields and Food Security in Zambia
The Government of Zambia has launched the Zambia Soil Partnership (ZSP) and the Global Soil Doctors Programme (GSDP) in a move aimed at strengthening sustainable soil management and improving the country’s agrifood systems.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and supported by the United States Government, is part of the broader Soil Mapping for Resilient Agrifood Systems (SoilFER) programme.
The programme seeks to transform soil data into practical solutions to help farmers, policymakers and agribusinesses improve crop productivity, optimise fertiliser use and strengthen agricultural value chains.
The launch, held during a national technical workshop in Lusaka from 17 to 18 March, also marked the inauguration of a soil moisture monitoring station installed at the University of Zambia. The facility, developed in collaboration with the FAO/IAEA Joint Centre, is expected to enhance Zambia’s soil analysis capacity and support evidence-based agricultural decisions.
Speaking on behalf of Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo Phiri, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services John A. Mulongoti underscored the importance of soil health in driving agricultural transformation.
“Healthy soils are the foundation of sustainable agriculture and food security in Zambia,” he said, noting that improved soil management is key to boosting productivity and strengthening the resilience of agrifood systems.
The Zambia Soil Partnership will serve as a national platform bringing together government institutions, research bodies, universities, farmers, private sector players and development partners to coordinate soil management efforts.
Meanwhile, the Global Soil Doctors Programme will focus on farmer-to-farmer training, equipping participants with practical skills to assess soil health, identify threats and improve soil and fertiliser management practices.
Suze Percy-Filippini reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s agricultural sector, highlighting the importance of innovation and partnerships in transforming agrifood systems.
“The SoilFER programme demonstrates how investments in data, innovation and partnerships can make agrifood systems more resilient, sustainable and productive,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Julie Kapuvari stressed the link between soil health, nutrition and resilience, noting that healthy soils contribute to better crop quality and improved food security.
The initiative aligns with the Global Soil Partnership framework coordinated by FAO and supports broader regional efforts under the African Soil Partnership.
Experts say the launch marks a significant step towards improving agricultural productivity, strengthening rural livelihoods and promoting sustainable agrifood trade in Zambia.
