The Farmer's Journal Africa Magazine Issue 001

Seeding Change in African Agriculture: Our Expert Coverage Brings You the Stories and Trends Shaping the Industry Today.

CONTENTS 02 EDITOR'S NOTE 03 Nutrition in the Soil: How Organic Farming Boosts the Health Benefits of Your Food 06 VP Kamala Harris Tours Innovative Farm in Zambia, Highlights Climate- Smart Agriculture for Food Security 09 EVENT FARMING EXPO 11 Women in Agriculture: LUSAKA The ZedFarmer Zindaba Hanzala Maanda E. Sianga 32 34 19 Agribusiness 2023 Quarterly Update: APRIL-MAY ISSUE 0001 Winter Crop Calendar Tomato Farming Case Update on the current situation of for Zambian Farmers: Study: Young Africa maize in Zambia for the 2022-2023 FAO Crop Calendar Works Hydroponics Farm, season Kibiko Wheat Outlook: Good Prospects for Zambia's 2022-2023 Season Soya Beans Market Report Zambia's Cotton Board Expects Increase in Production Despite Challenges Zimbabwean Tobacco Season Rwanda Expects 600% Increase in Avocado Exports by 2026 Inflation accelerates to 7% in South Africa 30 Winter Harvest: 5 Marketing Strategies for African Farmers to Boost Sales During the Off-Season. [email protected] www.thefarmersjournal.com

I am thrilled to present to you the first issue of Jonathan Gowera The Farmer's Journal Africa Magazine. It has been an incredible journey to bring together this Editor-in-Chief collection of articles that offer insights into the latest developments in the farming industry across the SADC region. Editor’s Note As we embark on this new venture, we are excited to share stories that not only showcase innovation but also highlight the challenges faced by the sector. Our aim is to provide valuable information and resources to farmers and agribusinesses across the continent. In this issue, we address the issue of nutrition in the soil and how organic farming boosts the health benefits of your food. We also feature inspiring stories on women in agriculture, including The ZedFarmer, Zindaba Hanzala, and Maanda E. Sianga. In addition, we feature an article on Vice President Kamala Harris's visit to a Zambian farm, where she emphasized the importance of climate-smart agriculture for food security. We also have a case study on hydroponic farming and how it is revolutionizing tomato farming in Kenya. Furthermore, we provide updates on the current situation of maize, wheat, cotton, and soya beans in Zambia. We also have a market report on the Zimbabwean tobacco season and Rwanda's projection for a 600% increase in avocado exports by 2026. I hope you find this issue informative and enlightening. We look forward to bringing you more insights and stories from all over Africa in the upcoming issues. www.thefarmersjournal.com 2

Nutrition in the Soil: How Organic Farming Boosts the Health Benefits of Your Food

Organic farming has gained popularity over the years due to its numerous benefits to both the environment and the nutritional content of food. Organic farming refers to a method of farming that utilizes natural resources and avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. In this article, we will explore the benefits of organic farming and how it affects the nutritional content of food. One of the most significant benefits of organic farming is that it promotes soil health. Organic farmers use natural methods to enhance the quality of the soil, such as crop rotation, cover crops, and composting. These methods ensure that the soil retains its nutrients and promotes the growth of healthy plants. In contrast, conventional farming relies on synthetic fertilizers, which can damage the soil, leading to a decline in its nutritional content. Organic farming practices also help to protect the environment. Since organic farmers avoid the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, they reduce the risk of contaminating the soil and water sources. Organic farmers also promote biodiversity by providing habitats for different types of plants and animals. www.thefarmersjournal.com 4

Another significant benefit of organic farming is that it enhances the nutritional content of food. Organic produce has been found to have higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to conventionally grown produce. Research has shown that organic crops contain up to 60% more antioxidants than conventionally grown crops. Antioxidants are essential for the body as they protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Organic farming also produces crops that are free from harmful chemicals. Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers used in conventional farming have been linked to various health problems such as cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological disorders. Organic farming practices ensure that food is free from harmful chemicals, making it safer for consumption. Furthermore, organic farming helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Synthetic fertilizers used in conventional farming release nitrous oxide, which is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Organic farming practices, such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting, promote carbon sequestration in the soil, reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere. In conclusion, organic farming has numerous benefits that not only promote soil health and protect the environment but also enhance the nutritional content of food. Organic produce contains higher levels of antioxidants and is free from harmful chemicals, making it safer for consumption. Organic farming practices also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making it a sustainable method of farming. By choosing organic produce, we can support farmers who promote sustainable farming practices while also promoting our health and the health of the planet.

VP Kamala Harris Tours Innovative Farm in Zambia, Highlights Climate-Smart Agriculture for Food Security. On April 1, 2023, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris visited Panuka Farms outside Lusaka, Zambia, to witness first-hand how the farm is using new techniques and technology to boost its vegetable crop as a way to secure food supplies in an age of global warming. During her visit, she walked past rows of peppers and inspected a drip irrigation system, commenting that it was an example of what could be done around the world. The focus in Africa is on expanding access to food, unlike in the United States, where conversations about climate change usually revolve around replacing fossil fuels with clean energy. Rising food prices stemming from the Russian invasion of Ukraine have been damaging to poor countries, and global warming is expected to bring more challenges in the coming years. Hunger can also create instability, leading to migration and conflict. “The connection between these issues is quite clear,” Harris said. www.thefarmersjournal.com 6

To help Africa prepare for the effects of climate change, Harris is pushing for $7 billion in private-sector investments, mostly to boost conservation and improve food production. The politics of climate change are complicated in Africa, which has contributed far less to overall greenhouse gas emissions than richer corners of the world such as the United States. According to the International Energy Agency, 43% of As for the money, President Joe Biden Africans didn’t have access to has requested $11 billion in his proposed electricity in 2021, and recent outages budget to meet its international have caused frustration. commitments. “We are waiting for Congress to do its work,” Harris said. In Ghana, Harris was questioned at a news conference about how the West Climate change is a pressing issue that can demand that Africa go green and affects the entire planet. With the forgo using its natural resources. She world’s population expected to reach 9.7 was also pressed on whether wealthy billion by 2050, food production will nations would supply $100 billion need to increase by 70% to meet the annually to help poor countries cope growing demand. However, climate with climate change, a commitment change is already having an impact on made under the Paris climate accord. food production, with droughts, floods, Harris said it is “critically important that, and other extreme weather events as global leaders, we all speak truth affecting crop yields. about the disparities that exist in terms of cause and effect and that we To address these challenges, it is address those disparities.” She said essential to find new ways to produce there were opportunities in the “clean food that are more resilient to the energy economy” that could help effects of climate change. This is where generate growth in Africa. new techniques and technology come in.

Drip irrigation, for example, is a technique that allows farmers to water their crops more efficiently, using less water overall. This is especially important in regions where water is scarce. Other techniques, such as intercropping and crop rotation, can help to improve soil health and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. There are also opportunities to improve food production through the use of technology. For example, precision agriculture uses sensors, drones, and other tools to monitor crops and optimize growing conditions. This can help to reduce waste and increase yields. In addition, genetic engineering and biotechnology can be used to create crops that are more resilient to the effects of climate change, such as drought-tolerant varieties. However, these solutions are not without their challenges. For example, there are concerns about the safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the potential impact they may have on the environment. In addition, there are questions about who will benefit from these technologies and whether they will be accessible to small-scale farmers in developing countries. 10 EXPLORE / MARCH 2019 8 www.thefarmersjournal.com



About the Event Join us at the Farming Expo Lusaka, showcase their products and services the premier event for the farming to new and existing customers. We community! Following the believe that by bringing together resounding success of our 2022 farmers, agribusinesses, and industry event, which attracted major experts under one roof, we can create industry players as well as SMEs, we a space for meaningful connections, are committed to making our expo innovative ideas, and valuable insights. an annual fixture for farmers across the country. To support our event, we have Our mission is to provide exhibitors launched www.FarmExpoLusaka.com, with a world-class platform to a comprehensive website that provides guests and exhibitors with up-to-date information about our expo. Whether you are looking to exhibit your products, discover the latest trends and technologies, or network with like-minded professionals, Farming Expo Lusaka has something for everyone. So mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready for an exciting and relevant expo that celebrates the diversity and richness of Zambia's farming community. We can't wait to work with you all and make this year's event even better than the last!

WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE

Maria Zaloumis: The Zedfarmer Maria Zaloumis, aka The Zedfarmer, is not only a successful commercial farmer but also a compassionate and resilient leader who is dedicated to improving the lives of women in agriculture in Zambia. Through her social media platforms, she has built a community of followers who look up to her as a role model and mentor. Her practical advice, inspirational stories, and advocacy for women's rights in agriculture have had a significant impact on empowering women farmers in Zambia and beyond. As a board director of the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) and the national chairperson of the fruit and vegetable commodities, Maria Zaloumis uses her position to drive policy changes that promote gender equality and inclusivity in agriculture. She actively engages with stakeholders and policymakers to raise awareness about the challenges faced by women farmers, such as limited access to land, credit, markets, and extension services. She also advocates for gender-responsive agricultural policies that recognize and address the unique needs and contributions of women in the sector. Maria Zaloumis's work has not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to agriculture and women's empowerment.

Her speaking engagements at 13 prestigious events and platforms, both locally and internationally, have further amplified her voice and brought attention to the important role of women in agriculture. In conclusion, Maria Zaloumis, The Zedfarmer, is a true role model for women in agriculture in Zambia and beyond. Her dedication to agriculture, her advocacy for gender equality, and her unwavering commitment to empowering women farmers have made a significant impact on the agricultural sector and women's livelihoods. Through her social media platforms and leadership positions, she continues to inspire and empower women to overcome barriers, pursue their dreams in agriculture, and contribute to sustainable food systems and rural development. Maria Zaloumis is a shining example of how women can break barriers, excel in traditionally male-dominated sectors, and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. www.thefarmersjournal.com



Zindaba Hanzala: Mrs. Zambia 2022 & Founder of Mulimi Farmers Scheme Zindaba Hanzala, popularly known across the agriculture value chain in as \"The Beauty Queen/Mrs. Zambia Zambia. Zindaba Hanzala is also a 2022,\" is a trailblazer in the business advisor for the USAID agriculture industry in Zambia. She Enterprise Development and Growth has transitioned into becoming an Enhancement (EDGE) project, where agripreneur and the founder of she shares her expertise and Mulimi Farmers Scheme, a social knowledge with aspiring and enterprise that provides agro- existing farmers. financing, agro-insurance, technical support, and market linkage to One of Zindaba Hanzala's key small-scale and emergent farmers- contributions to the agriculture sec-

-tor is her use of social media -akers and stakeholders to address platforms to share her passion, the challenges that women farmers challenges, and achievements as a face, such as limited access to woman farmer and agripreneur in finance, land, and markets. Zambia. Through her posts and engagements, she provides valuable Zindaba Hanzala's work has not tips, advice, and motivation to other gone unnoticed. She has been farmers, particularly women and recognized and awarded for her youth, who are interested in starting contributions to the agriculture or growing their own agribusinesses. sector in Zambia. She is also the She covers a wide range of topics, current Mrs. Zambia 2022. including maize farming, fish farming, potato farming, vegetable Zindaba Hanzala's dedication and farming, marketing, value addition, passion for agriculture, combined financial management, leadership, with her entrepreneurial spirit, have and personal development, made her a role model and providing practical insights and inspiration for women in agriculture guidance to her audience. in Zambia and beyond. She has proven that with determination, hard Zindaba Hanzala is a true role work, and innovative thinking, model for women in agriculture in women can excel in the agriculture Zambia. As the beauty queen, she sector and make a meaningful has used her fame and influence to contribution to food security, empower Zambian farmers and nutrition, and economic promote agriculture as a viable and development. Her advocacy for profitable career option, especially women farmers and her efforts to for women. She believes in giving empower them through her social women farmers a voice and a media platforms and entrepreneurial platform to showcase their work and initiatives are commendable, and learn from each other. She she continues to inspire and uplift advocates for women's rights and the agriculture community in interests in the agricultural sector, Zambia. and actively engages with policym- www.thefarmersjournal.com 16

Maanda Elizabeth Sianga: The Young Farmer Maanda Maanda Elizabeth Sianga is a true Maanda is the proud founder of inspiration for women in agriculture in Agro Queens, a thriving mixed Zambia. She has broken barriers and farming entity that encompasses paved the way for other women to aquaculture, livestock, and fresh pursue their dreams in the vegetables. Her dedication and hard traditionally male-dominated industry work have successfully grown her of agriculture. Through her hard work, farming venture, and she now dedication, and innovation, she has supplies horticultural produce to established herself as a multi-award- leading retail outlets throughout winning young farmer and agricultural Zambia. This is no small feat, as the influencer, making a significant agricultural industry in Zambia can impact on the agricultural landscape be challenging, especially for in Zambia. women. www.thefarmersjournal.com 17

As a woman in agriculture, Maanda Maanda Elizabeth Sianga is a true has faced many challenges, including role model for women in agriculture limited access to resources, land in Zambia and beyond. Her story ownership issues, and cultural biases. reminds us that with passion, However, she has not let these perseverance, and hard work, challenges hold her back. Instead, she anything is possible. She is proof has used them as motivation to work that women can achieve great harder, innovate, and empower other things in the agricultural industry women in the industry. and that they have an important role to play in feeding the world. Maanda's story is one of determination, innovation, and empowerment. She has shown that with hard work, dedication, and innovation, women can make a significant impact in the agricultural industry. She has also inspired and empowered other women in Zambia to pursue their dreams in agriculture and break down the barriers that have traditionally held women back in this field. Through her TED talk titled \"Things they won’t tell you about Farming,\" Maanda shares her experiences and highlights the major challenges that farmers, especially women, face in the industry. Her talk offers valuable insights into ways to stay afloat in the business and overcome the obstacles that come with it. www.thefarmersjournal.com 18

Agribusiness 2023 Quarterly Update

UPDATE ON THE CURRENT SITUATION OF MAIZE IN ZAMBIA FOR THE 2022-2023 SEASON The current situation of maize in Zambia for the 2022-2023 season indicates a decline in maize prices due to the release of reserve stocks by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA). However, the price of mealie-meal, a local staple food made from maize, has increased by 25% year-on-year. The FRA’s intervention to stabilize mealie-meal prices is consistent with government policy on maize and maize marketing. The current maize production cycle for the 2022-2023 season is at the growth stage, and marginal gains can be expected as harvest draws closer. However, the poor roll-out of the Fertilizer Input Support Program (FISP) is expected to impact output, and the national output is expected to match the 2022 output of 3 million MT, which matches current national consumption for both domestic and industrial uses. The Zambian government’s efforts to stabilize maize prices are more symbolic than practical, and the poor distribution of inputs and price volatility remain significant challenges that require urgent attention. www.thefarmersjournal.com 20

Wheat Outlook: Good The price of wheat has remained Prospects for Zambia’s consistent at $570 per ton, indicating a 2022-2023 Season Despite structural deficit in production. Zambia Production Deficit and carries a production deficit of 100k MT Currency Depreciation. and depends on irrigation for wheat cultivation. The availability of water is Wheat is an essential crop essential for a good crop, and the 2022- globally, and its production and 2023 season shows a positive outlook in pricing significantly impact the terms of rainfall distribution. However, the agricultural sector. In this report, increase in the cost of production due to the current state of wheat rising fertilizer and chemical costs and production and pricing is currency depreciation is a significant analyzed, with a specific focus on concern for farmers. Governments need to Zambia's wheat production. take necessary measures to support farmers and ensure the sustainability of wheat production. Soya Beans Market Report: Prices, Production, and Outlook for 2023-Zambia The current price of soya beans has decreased by 1.9% to $540 per tonne, which is still 10% lower than the same period last year due to a well-supplied market with limited large parcel trades. The increased cultivation area by small-holder farmers has contributed to Zambia breaching the 400k MT production mark. However, at the current price, soya beans are trading at a premium assuming no consistent exports are in place. Commercial beans hold a comparative advantage over small-holder crops as they can provide supplementary irrigation. The expectation is that the price will correct to $450 - $475 per ton, which may delay until this season's expected harvest or be pushed to 2024 or further. The edible oil industry will benefit from increased stock availability due to downward pressure on prices, while farmers growing beans at a premium will face a dilemma of reduced margins

Optimism Despite Challenges: Zambia's Cotton Board Expects Increase in Cotton Production for 2022/2023 Season The Cotton Board of Zambia is have impacted-cotton production optimistic about cotton production and the Cotton Board of Zambia is for the 2022/2023 farming season, working to finalize projections for despite challenges posed by floods, the current season. The increase in according to Senior Inspector cotton production is expected to Nyambe Kwalombota. He stated that have positive impacts on rural an increase in the number of farmers livelihoods, income generation, engaged in cotton production, and economic growth. Challenges incentivized by favorable prices in such as adverse weather the previous season, is expected to conditions persist, and sustained offset the challenges and result in a efforts by the Cotton Board of potential increase in cotton Zambia and farmers will be production. However, floods and needed to ensure continued adverse weather condition growth in cotton production in Zambia. www.thefarmersjournal.com 22



Zimbabwean Tobacco Season Commences with Higher Prices and Government Calls for Fairness and Transparency The Zimbabwean tobacco season has started with the auction of the first bale at the Tobacco Sales Floor, attended by government officials. The first bale was sold for slightly higher than the previous year, and the government has called for transparency and fairness in tobacco sales to facilitate the equitable sharing of proceeds. The government also announced an increase in foreign currency retention to 85% to motivate farmers to continue with their tobacco farming. The government aims to increase the localization of tobacco funding to 70% of the cost of production by 2025, which is expected to accelerate the transformation of the tobacco industry, a significant contributor to the country's economy. Buyers can sell their tobacco at various companies, and prompt payment to growers is critical to ensure sustainability. Overall, the tobacco industry is expected to continue to contribute significantly to Zimbabwe's economy. Conclusion: The start of the Zimbabwean tobacco season is a positive development for the country's economy, as the tobacco industry is a significant contributor. The government's efforts to increase transparency, fairness, and local funding are expected to accelerate the transformation of the industry, and the increase in foreign currency retention should motivate farmers to continue with their tobacco farming. The timely payment to growers is crucial to ensure sustainability, and all players in the value chain need to operate profitably. Overall, the success of the selling season is essential for Zimbabwe's economy, and the tobacco industry's continued contribution. 24 www.thefarmersjournal.com

Rwanda’s Avocado Export Projected to Increase by Over 600% by 2026, Thanks to Horticulture Industry Strategies. Rwanda's horticulture industry is With roughly 70% of the community expected to increase avocado exports engaged in the sector, the by over 600% to 16,000 tons per year agriculture industry is the backbone by 2026, according to Seun Rasheed, of Rwanda's economic activity. CEO of Souk Farms, a major exporter in Rwanda. The country's agriculture and horticulture exports are fast becoming a crucial part of its economy, accounting for 33% of the national GDP. Avocado, French beans, bird-eye chilies, and habanero chilies are the primary exports. Rwanda exports 200-250 metric tons of avocados per month, primarily to the United Arab Emirates, but mass production is expected to double the production in the coming years. www.thefarmersjournal.com 25



INFLATION ACCELERATES TO 7% IN SOUTH AFRICA, DRIVEN BY FOOD AND NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, HOUSING, AND UTILITIES. South Africa's headline inflation rate accelerated to 7% year-on-year in February 2023, according to the latest update from Statistics South Africa. This increase was driven by food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing and utilities, transport, and miscellaneous goods and services. In particular, the food category was a major driver of inflation, with prices reaching a record high of 14% year-on-year since March 2009. The bread and cereals category saw the highest increase of 20.5% year-on-year in February, although this was slightly slower than the pace in January. Other food items such as meat, oils and fats, vegetables, and other foods also saw significant year-on-year increases. www.thefarmersjournal.com 27

Cost pressures from elevated feed 28 costs and load shedding were identified as the main drivers of higher meat inflation. However, there is some optimism for food inflation in the months ahead, as the domestic summer crop season is expected to end on a positive note with a good harvest due to excellent seasonal conditions. It is worth noting that global food inflation remains on the downside, as per the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's February update, which showed a fourth consecutive decrease to -8.1% year-on-year. While the rise in inflation is a concern, the moderation in grain prices relative to 2022 levels and the expected good harvest from the domestic summer crop season may limit the upside in consumer prices in the coming months. However, addressing issues such as load shedding and other cost pressures will be critical in mitigating the impact on the economy and consumers. It remains to be seen how long the inflationary pressures will persist, and monitoring the situation and implementing appropriate measures will be important for managing the country's inflation rate. www.thefarmersjournal.com

Winter Tips

Winter Harvest: 5 Marketing 30 Strategies for African Farmers to Boost Sales During the Off-Season. Winter can be a challenging time for African farmers, as the cold weather and limited daylight hours can make it difficult to grow crops. However, with careful planning and smart marketing strategies, farmers can still make the most of their produce during the off- season. In this article, we will explore some effective winter marketing strategies for African farmers. Diversify Your Product Range: One of the best ways to boost your winter sales is by diversifying your product range. While some crops may not grow well during the winter months, there are still many options to explore. For example, you could consider growing cold- tolerant vegetables like kale, spinach, and carrots. Alternatively, you could focus on producing value-added products like pickles, jams, and sauces using your summer harvest. Tap into New Markets: During the winter months, many farmers’ markets and other outlets may close down or operate on reduced hours. However, this does not mea- www.thefarmersjournal.com

-n that there are no customers out there. You may need to explore new markets to tap into. For example, you could reach out to local grocery stores, restaurants, and schools to see if they are interested in purchasing your produce. Offer Seasonal Discount: Another effective strategy is to offer seasonal discounts to encourage customers to buy your products during the winter months. You could offer discounts on bulk purchases, or create special winter bundles that offer a variety of different products at a reduced price. This can help you move more products during the off-season and build customer loyalty. Leverage of Social Media can be a powerful marketing tool for farmers, particularly during the winter months when face-to-face interactions may be limited. You could create a Facebook page or Instagram account to showcase your products, share recipes, and connect with customers. You could also run targeted ads on social media platforms to reach new customers and promote your winter offerings. Partner with Other Farmers: Partnering with other farmers can be a great way to expand your product range and reach new customers. For example, you could team up with a local dairy farmer to offer cheese and yogurt made from their milk. You could also collaborate with other vegetable growers to create winter CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) boxes that offer a variety of different produce. In conclusion, while winter can be a challenging time for African farmers, many marketing strategies can help you make the most of your produce during the off-season. By diversifying your product range, tapping into new markets, offering seasonal discounts, leveraging social media, and partnering with other farmers, you can increase your sales and build a loyal customer base. www.thefarmersjournal.com 31

Winter Crop Calendar for Zambian Farmers: FAO Crop Calendar Winter in Zambia, which typically falls Barley (June - July): Barley is another between May and August, presents unique winter crop that can be grown in opportunities and challenges for farmers. Zambia. It is similar to wheat in terms As temperatures drop and rainfall of planting time and cold tolerance. decreases, selecting the right crops and It can be sown in June or early July timing their planting and management and requires similar management become crucial for a successful winter practices as wheat. cropping season. Here's a general crop Legumes (June - July): Legume crops calendar that can serve as a guide for such as chickpeas, lentils, and peas Zambian farmers during winter: can also be grown during the winter season in Zambia. These crops can Maize (May - June): Early-maturing be sown in June or early July and can maize varieties can be planted in May provide additional income and or early June to take advantage of the improve soil fertility through nitrogen residual moisture from the rainy fixation. season. These varieties should be Brassicas (June - July): Brassicas, selected to mature within 90-100 days including cabbage, kale, and to avoid frost damage. cauliflower, are suitable winter crops Wheat (June - July): Wheat is a in Zambia. They can be sown in June popular winter crop in Zambia, or early July and can be harvested in especially in cooler regions. It can be the cooler months. These crops planted in June or early July, require proper pest and disease depending on the location and management due to the increased weather conditions. Timely planting is prevalence of pests during winter. critical for good crop establishment, Carrots (June - July): Carrots are a and varieties with good tolerance to popular root vegetable that can be cold temperatures should be selected. grown during winter in Zambia. www.thefarmersjournal.com 32

They can be sown in June or early July and pest and disease control, and require well-drained soils and adequate harvesting, should be followed to irrigation. ensure a successful winter cropping season in Zambia. Onions (June - July): Onions are another potential winter crop in The FAO Crop Calendar tool is a Zambia. They can be sown in June or valuable resource for farmers who early July and require proper want to plan their crop planting and management of irrigation and nutrient harvesting activities effectively. By levels for optimal growth. visiting the FAO website at Forage Crops (May - July): Forage https://cropcalendar.apps.fao.org/, crops such as ryegrass, oats, and vetch farmers can access the tool and can be grown during the winter season obtain information on the to provide feed for livestock. These recommended planting, sowing, and crops can be sown from May to July, harvesting periods for locally adapted depending on the region and weather crops in specific agro-ecological conditions. zones in Africa, including Zambia. This It's important to note that specific planting information can help farmers make dates and crop varieties may vary informed decisions about when to depending on the location, climate, and plant their crops, optimize their soil conditions in different parts of agricultural practices, and improve Zambia. Farmers should always consult their crop yields. The FAO Crop local agricultural extension officers or Calendar is a user-friendly tool that agronomists for tailored recommendations can be accessed online, making it and best practices for their specific easily accessible for farmers to utilize farming operations. Proper crop in their farming operations. management practices including timely planting, irrigation, nutrient management, www.thefarmersjournal.com 33

A Tomato Farming Case Study: Young Africa Works Hydroponics Farming Site, Kibiko (Kenya) by Gathoni Mwaniki. The design of the YAW project is the work of a genius. There are 100 greenhouses, and 200 young farmers (18-35 years) doing capsicum and tomatoes, the latter being predominant. This project was conceived earlier than 2019, but it is in 2019 that I first heard of it. There was an online call for youthful men and women who had an interest in agribusiness. I heeded the call. Went through the application process and sometime in November 2019, joined a thousand other students for a 3-month course in agribusiness. After the training, I began phase two of the project, which was creating a partnership and receiving an 8m by 25m greenhouse in Kibiko, Ngong. Production began in April 2021 and has been going on to date. The project is successful because it addresses most of the challenges that face young farmers everywhere in Kenya. The project is a creation of KCB (Kenya Commercial Bank) and MasterCard Foundations. These are the foundations of large national and international firms in the banking industry with almost unlimited resources and a lot of bargaining power. The challenges that the project successfully addressed include: www.thefarmersjournal.com 34

Access to land. Of course, there have been challenges, KCB Foundation successfully negotiated a some major, that have led to the long-term lease plan in Kibiko, Ngong. overall project redesign. Nonetheless, I Kibiko is a prime location that is within the have found that this project is a larger Nairobi metropolitan area. This success story. The project has means that farmers are close to major facilitated a successful alliance markets in Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado. between two large organizations and 200 individual farmers. The two firms Access to Capital have a lot of bargaining power, which When they start farming, I have found that they use to negotiate for a better most Kenyan youths start with small operating environment for farmers, ventures that are relatively less capital- who are usually taken advantage of by intensive. It is uncommon for a young input sellers and buyers known as unemployed person to begin farming by “brokers”. building a Kshs. 400,000 hydroponic greenhouses. The farmer is also relatively independent, as he or she is solely Access to Expertise responsible for the production within Good agronomic expertise is hard to come the greenhouse. The farmer is free and by for a new farmer. Most farmers rely on even encouraged to build additional their information and data from online businesses using their greenhouses. sources such as YouTube, which can be This is how I have built a successful disastrous. Given the project’s magnitude agro-tourism company called Farms and supporting partners, it has been and Tours. possible to find the best agronomic experts and offer them full employment to support the 100 greenhouses. Access to Market Finally, farmers within the project have access to a ready market. Farmers signed a contract with the buyer to be part of the project, which guarantees the producer of a ready market at a constant price per kilo regardless of market changes. Sounds too good to be true, right? This has been my reality for 3 tomato seasons now. www.thefarmersjournal.com 35

The Farmer’s Journal Africa Magazine is a practical farming magazine, available online, that highlights the successful experiences of the country’s new generation of commercial farmers and gives advice on practical tips to prospective agricultural newcomers. Disclaimer: The information and views presented in this farming magazine are solely intended for general informational purposes and should not be considered as professional advice. We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information provided. The readers are advised to consult with relevant professionals before making any decisions based on the information presented in this magazine. We do not endorse any product or service mentioned in the magazine. The content presented in this magazine is the property of the publisher and should not be reproduced or distributed without prior permission.