Eliness Mwanza’s story is a powerful example of how the Markets and Seeds Access Project (MASAP) is transforming the lives of smallholder farmers in Zambia, particularly in the Eastern Province. Eliness is a member of the Chiyembekezo women’s group, one of ten groups formed by SHAREAfrica Zambia, a partner organisation working within the MASAP framework.
Eliness’s journey began in October 2022 when she received 40kgs of groundnut seeds from SHAREAfrica. This was part of a seed multiplication contract farming initiative supported by MASAP. Eliness wasn’t alone – the entire Chiyembekezo group participated in pre-planting training sessions in November. These sessions, facilitated by SHAREAfrica, covered crucial aspects of seed production, including planting guidelines and best practices.
MASAP’s impact goes beyond providing seeds. Recognising the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, the project, through SHAREAfrica, offered tillage services using a newly procured tractor and equipment. Eliness readily acknowledges how these services reduced the labour intensity of land preparation, allowing her to consider cultivating a larger area in the future.
Throughout the growing season, Eliness continued to benefit from MASAP’s support. Crop management training sessions equipped her with valuable knowledge of weeding practices, and SHAREAfrica provided ongoing extension monitoring to ensure the success of her crop.
Eliness’s dedication and the support provided by MASAP and SHAREAfrica paid off. By the end of May 2023, she had successfully harvested a significant yield – 15 bags of groundnut seed, totalling 428kgs! MASAP’s support extends beyond production. Under the intervention, SHAREAfrica will facilitate door-to-door aggregation of the seeds, ensuring Eliness receives a premium price for her harvest. This additional income will significantly improve her livelihood.
Eliness’s story exemplifies the transformative power of MASAP. She’s not only satisfied with the current season’s results but is already looking forward to expanding her operations, committing a full hectare to groundnut production in the coming season. Eliness’s journey is a testament to the positive impact MASAP is having on smallholder farmers in Zambia’s Eastern Province. By providing essential resources, training, and market access, MASAP is empowering farmers like Eliness to build a more secure and prosperous future.
About SHAREAfrica Zambia
SHAREAfrica Zambia (SAZ) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering marginalised individuals in Zambia through sustainable initiatives. With its headquarters in Lusaka Province and a presence in Eastern Province, SAZ focuses on equipping communities with skills and resources to build better lives.
Central to SAZ’s approach is the development of value chains, beginning with quality seed production and culminating in nutritious food. The organisation operates through three divisions: SAZ-Foods, SAZ-Agri, and SAZ-Community. In the Eastern Province, SAZ-Agri conducts seed production activities, including crops like soya bean, groundnut, sunflower, and maize, working closely with local farmers registered under a seed out-grower program. Through its multifaceted interventions, SHAREAfrica Zambia strives to create sustainable livelihoods and foster agricultural resilience in Zambia’s rural communities.
