GLO Zambia Agriculture Training Report

Recent Events

Introduction

An agriculture training workshop was conducted from 30th to 31st October 2025 with the aim of equipping community members with practical knowledge and biblical principles for sustainable farming. The training emphasized stewardship of God given natural resources, improved farm management, organic agriculture, food security, and integrated pest management. A total of 24 participants attended the workshop, comprising 10 females and 14 males. 

Attendance Summary

Total participants: 24 (F: 10 M: 14)

The attendance reflected a balanced interest from both male and female, with active participation throughout the sessions as most of them were small scale farmers, gardeners, and members from the community. 

Topics Covered

Stewardship of Natural Resources
Participants were introduced to the biblical concept of stewardship, emphasizing the responsibility to care for and wisely manage the natural resources that God has provided. Discussions focused on sustainable land use, soil conservation, water management, and responsible farming practices.

Implementation Management: Four Biblical Principles
The training highlighted four key biblical principles for effective work and life management:
1) On Time – completing tasks within the required timeframe.
2) At a High Standard – ensuring excellence in farming and all work activities.
3) Without Wastage – minimizing loss of resources, inputs, and produce.
4) With Joy – maintaining a positive and God--honouring attitude while working.

Participants appreciated how these principles can guide daily farm operations and improve productivity.

Organic Fertilizers
The session covered different types of organic fertilizers, including:
- Bokashi
- Compost manure
- Green manures
- Liquid fertilizers (optional)

Demonstrations were done on compost preparation and correct application methods to improve soil fertility.

Companion Planting and Food Security
Participants learned about effective plant combinations that enhance soil health, deter pests, and increases yields. The importance of household food security was emphasized, focusing on diverse crop production, sustainable farming, and reducing dependence on external inputs.

General Garden Hygiene
The training stressed the importance of maintaining a clean and well-managed garden. Topics discussed included waste removal, proper spacing, crop rotation, and weed management to prevent pest and disease buildup.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
A comprehensive session on IPM covered:
- Pest identification
- Prevention strategies
- Use of natural pesticides
- Biological control methods
- Safe and minimal use of chemicals

Participants found this module especially useful as it addressed common challenges faced in their gardens.

Participant Feedback

Overall, feedback from participants was highly positive. The most appreciated topics included:
- Stewardship Teaching the connection between faith and sustainable agriculture.
- Food Security practical strategies for improving household food availability.
- Integrated Pest Management practical, low cost methods to reduce pest damage.
- Profit and Loss understanding farm budgeting and the importance of record keeping.

Participants expressed interest in having more hands on session in future training events.

Challenges Encountered

Despite the success of the training, several challenges were noted:

1) Limited Time: The two day schedule was not enough to cover all topics in depth.

2) Financial Constraints: Budget limitations as the training would have been open to more than 50 participants.

3) The expected participants could not be reached and others could not come most likely due to the start of the farming season

Recommendations

To improve future training programs, the following recommendations are suggested:

1) Increase Training Duration: Extend the workshop to three or more days to allow for deeper practical demonstrations.

2) Schedule trainings before the peak of farming season and mobilize participants through churches, local leaders, community announcements, cooperatives, and farmer groups.

3) Secure additional funding/partnerships to train more participants and provide for adequate materials, tools, and facilitator support.

4) Follow-Up Support: Conduct periodic follow-ups to monitor adoption of skills and offer technical guidance.

5) Hands-On Demonstrations: Include more field-based practical sessions, especially on compost making, pest control, and companion planting.

6) Record-Keeping Training: Provide further training on budgeting, profit and loss, and farm planning.

7) Gender Inclusion: Continue encouraging balanced participation by engaging more women and youth in agricultural activities.

Conclusion

The agriculture training successfully equipped participants with valuable knowledge on sustainable farming, stewardship, organic fertilizers, food security, and integrated pest management. Despite minor challenges, the workshop achieved its objectives and laid a strong foundation for improved agricultural practices within the community. With continued support, follow up, and improved planning, future trainings will further strengthen local capacity for sustainable food production.

Report prepared by:
Brother Edwin Chama