Agriculture Climate Action Foundation -Zambia

24/06/2026

24/06/2026

Dr.Oliver Kandela Bulaya Writes

FRA Grain Pricing Delay - Need for Stronger Institutional Efficiency

President Hakainde Hichilema's directive for the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to announce the grain purchase price is both timely and necessary.

It demonstrates the President's concern for the welfare of Zambia's farmers and his commitment to ensuring that agricultural markets function effectively.

However, this intervention also raises an important concern regarding the effectiveness and responsiveness of the institutions mandated to serve farmers and drive the country's agricultural development agenda.

The announcement of grain prices is not a routine administrative matter. It is a critical policy decision that directly influences farmers' production planning, marketing strategies, investment decisions, and household incomes.

Such an important process should be undertaken proactively and within established timelines by the responsible institutions, rather than requiring intervention from the highest office in the land.

For Zambia to achieve its aspirations of increased agricultural productivity, enhanced food security, rural industrialization, and inclusive economic growth, government institutions must operate efficiently, consistently, and in a manner that inspires confidence among citizens.

Delays in key decisions create uncertainty within agricultural markets, weaken farmer confidence, and ultimately undermine national development objectives.

While the President's intervention reflects decisive leadership, it should not become the standard mechanism through which operational responsibilities are executed.

Strong institutions are built on accountability, professionalism, timely decision-making, and the capacity to deliver results without requiring direct presidential involvement in matters that fall squarely within their mandates.

Furthermore, prolonged delays in announcing critical agricultural decisions can create public perceptions that government is intentionally withholding information or delaying action, even when such perceptions may not reflect reality.

These misunderstandings can be avoided when institutions communicate transparently, act promptly, and fulfill their responsibilities in a predictable and efficient manner.

As a nation, we must continue strengthening our public institutions to ensure that they function as intended, supporting farmers, facilitating economic growth, and advancing national development goals.

Farmers deserve certainty, predictability, and a governance framework that responds to their needs in a timely and professional manner.

An efficient agricultural sector depends not only on the hard work and determination of farmers but also on institutions that are responsive, accountable, and committed to serving the public interest.

The future of Zambia's agriculture lies not merely in policy pronouncements but in the effectiveness of the systems established to implement government policies.

23/06/2026

Congratulations Director!

21/06/2026

18/06/2026

Dr.Oliver Kandela Bulaya writes;

Extension To The Last Mile

Yesterday, I had a productive interaction with farmers in Nachitalu, Mpongwe. Today, I held two meetings with farmers in Mikumpu during the morning and later proceeded to Ibenga for another engagement.

These meetings form part of CFU on ongoing efforts to prepare farmers for the upcoming agricultural season while drawing valuable lessons from the experiences of the previous season.

The purpose of these gatherings was to strengthen farmers' capacity to build climate resilience in the face of increasing weather variability and climate-related challenges.

Discussions focused on the importance of adopting climate-smart agriculture practices, improving preparedness, and making informed farming decisions that enhance productivity and sustainability.

We also emphasized the need for farmers to pay close attention to key agronomic factors, including timely land preparation, selection of suitable crop varieties, correct planting methods, soil fertility management, moisture conservation, pest and disease control, and efficient use of available resources.

Combining sound agronomic principles with climate-smart agricultural practices and mechenissation farmers can reduce risks, improve yields, and strengthen food security and livelihoods for the coming season and beyond.

17/06/2026

DESERTIFICATION AND DROUGHT DAY 2026

17 June 2026 🌱🌍

Today, 17 June 2026, the world commemorates Desertification and Drought Day under the global theme "Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore."

This theme calls for greater appreciation and protection of rangelands, which are natural landscapes such as grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, and grazing areas that support livestock production, biodiversity, livelihoods, and ecosystem health.

These areas are essential for food production, water conservation, carbon storage, and the resilience of rural communities.

Desertification refers to the degradation of productive land caused by factors such as unsustainable farming practices, deforestation, overgrazing, and climate change, resulting in declining soil fertility and reduced agricultural productivity.

Drought is a prolonged period of inadequate rainfall that leads to water shortages, crop failure, livestock losses, and threats to food security. Together, desertification and drought represent some of the most pressing environmental and agricultural challenges facing Zambia and the world today.

As we observe this important day, we are reminded that healthy land is the foundation of sustainable agriculture, resilient livelihoods, and national food security.

The restoration and protection of rangelands and other degraded landscapes require collective action through conservation agriculture, agroforestry, sustainable grazing practices, water harvesting, and responsible natural resource management.

Building resilience to climate change demands innovation, community participation, and long-term investments in land restoration.

The key message of this year's commemoration is clear: we must recognize the value of our land resources, respect the ecosystems that sustain life, and actively restore degraded areas for future generations.

Protecting our soils, conserving water, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, we can strengthen climate resilience, improve productivity, and secure a better future for our communities.

Statement issued by
Dr. Oliver Kandela Bulaya,
Executive Director
Agriculture Climate Action Foundation (ACAF)

16/06/2026

EL NIÑO PREPAREDNESS FOR FARMERS

"Preparation is the most effective strategy for managing climate uncertainty."

El Niño can result in prolonged dry periods, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and reduced agricultural productivity. Farmers are encouraged to take proactive measures by adopting climate-smart agricultural practices that improve productivity, conserve soil moisture, and enhance resilience to climate-related challenges.

✓ Implement conservation agriculture practices

✓ Plant promptly following the onset of effective rains

✓ Utilize drought-tolerant crop varieties

✓ Harvest and store water whenever feasible

✓ Retain crop residues to minimize moisture loss

✓ Diversify crops and income-generating activities

✓ Maintain adequate food and seed reserves

Strengthening Climate Resilience Through Climate-Smart Agriculture

PREPARE TODAY, SECURE TOMORROW

Dr. Oliver Kandela Bulaya
Climate-Smart Agriculture and Climate Resilience Expert