The Government, through the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, has commenced the establishment of a Farmer Field School in Lifalale Village of Mangonda Ward, aimed at mitigating the growing effects of climate change on agriculture, livestock, fisheries and forestry.
The initiative, which received K900,000 in funding in 2025, is designed to equip local farmers with practical, hands-on skills in agriculture, livestock management and horticulture.
The Farmer Field School is expected to serve as a key platform for promoting climate-smart agricultural practices and strengthening the resilience of farming communities against climate-related shocks.
Yesterday, a team of officers from the Ministry’s headquarters in Lusaka, accompanied by Heads of Government Departments from Zimba District, conducted a site inspection to assess progress on the project.
During the visit, the team observed the contractor installing and mounting a tank stand for a solar-powered water system that will support fish farming, livestock rearing and other agricultural activities at the facility.
Chief Sipatunyana welcomed and endorsed the project, urging the Lifalale community to take full ownership and actively participate in its implementation to ensure long-term success. He commended the Government for prioritising farmer training centres, especially at a time when climate change continues to disrupt conventional farming systems.
The Farmer Field School will feature an aquaculture demonstration through the construction of a fish pond, alongside practical demonstrations in livestock rearing, crop production and tree planting, to be supported by the Forestry Department.
Once fully operational, the facility is expected to significantly enhance farmers’ technical knowledge and capacity to adopt climate-smart farming practices, ultimately improving food security and promoting sustainable livelihoods in Lifalale and surrounding communities.
