BongoHive is excited to announce the completion of a series of transformative training sessions delivered under the ICRAF_Z4ABC project, aimed at empowering local farmers in Zambia with sustainable practices, market insights, and essential business skills. This initiative represents a vital part of BongoHive’s ongoing commitment to fostering commercially viable, climate-resilient agricultural businesses, particularly for youth and women, in rural communities across Zambia.

The ICRAF_Z4ABC project is an ambitious capacity-building effort, led by the International Council for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF), and is designed to equip farmers with the tools, knowledge, and strategies they need to boost productivity, manage resources sustainably, and tap into broader markets. Our team, led by Project Coordinator Misozi Chisenga and Junior Associate Eliezer Lungu, has travelled to various villages in Zambia, engaging deeply with local farmers and tailoring our training to meet the specific needs of each community.

In Vizimumba Village, the sessions introduced participants to essential business skills, laying a strong foundation for managing their agricultural enterprises with a focus on bamboo and honey production. Bamboo, a fast-growing, renewable resource, holds significant promise as a sustainable income stream. Meanwhile, honey production, when guided by modern beekeeping techniques, can offer farmers both increased yield and higher-quality products. Farmers in Vizimumba were not only trained in the technical aspects of these industries but were also equipped with financial planning skills, empowering them to make informed decisions that contribute to the long-term success of their businesses.

Shifting focus to Katete, the training spotlighted crops such as pigeon peas and tomatoes. Our team provided insights into strategic planning and market research, enabling farmers to better understand how to maximize crop yields and effectively reach their target markets. With tailored business plans and financial projections developed during the sessions, farmers left with the confidence and clarity needed to scale their operations in ways that align with market demands and sustainable practices.

Our recent sessions in Muchinga Province further extended the reach of the ICRAF_Z4ABC project, touching five designated sites where farmers are cultivating resilience and innovation in agriculture. BongoHive’s team provided guidance on climate-resilient techniques, particularly within key value chains, while also encouraging practices that can withstand environmental shifts and protect local ecosystems. In this region, the focus was on creating a sustainable foundation for agricultural businesses, empowering local SMEs to flourish in a way that benefits both their economic prospects and the environment.

Throughout the project, our efforts have been anchored in a commitment to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in agriculture. By focusing on youth and women-led businesses, we aim to support some of Zambia’s most dynamic and often underserved entrepreneurs, creating a ripple effect of economic growth that strengthens entire communities. Our approach is hands-on, practical, and focused on equipping farmers with not just knowledge, but also actionable skills that drive real results.

The impact of the ICRAF_Z4ABC project goes beyond individual farms and businesses—it fosters a more connected, resilient agricultural sector across Zambia. Each participant who completed our training sessions is now better positioned to increase their productivity, diversify their income, and contribute positively to Zambia’s agricultural economy. The training has helped farmers develop Digital Growth Action Plans and set SMART goals that provide a roadmap for sustainable growth. These plans are not just blueprints but also commitments to their journey toward becoming competitive, market-savvy businesses that can withstand market and environmental changes.

At BongoHive, we believe in the power of collaboration and partnership. Working with the International Council for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF) and other supporting organizations has enabled us to amplify our impact and deliver a programme that is as comprehensive as it is practical. The ICRAF_Z4ABC project is part of a broader vision to cultivate an ecosystem where agricultural enterprises can thrive and lead the way in sustainable, market-driven solutions that benefit both people and the planet.

This initiative is a testament to BongoHive’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic transformation in Zambia. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to scaling our efforts, supporting more farmers and rural entrepreneurs, and helping them unlock new market opportunities. The completion of the ICRAF_Z4ABC training sessions marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Zambia’s agricultural entrepreneurs. Through sustainable practices, community empowerment, and strategic business insights, BongoHive is proud to drive innovation and economic growth within Zambia’s agricultural sector.

We invite you to join us on this transformative journey, as we continue to support Zambian farmers in creating resilient, successful, and sustainable agricultural businesses that will impact generations to come.