WEZ Empowers Women Farmers to Combat Drought in Rufunsa

Introduction

Zambia’s recent drought has had a devastating impact on food security, particularly for women farmers. Women Environs in Zambia (WEZ) is committed to addressing this crisis through sustainable solutions. On 19^th March 2024, WEZ conducted a three-day permaculture training program in Rufunsa District to equip women farmers with the knowledge and skills to build resilience against drought and ensure food security for their families.

Empowering Women Farmers The training focused on seed multiplication and drought-resistant farming techniques. Participants learned about permaculture principles, including:

Designing sustainable farming systems
Improving soil health
Conserving water
Selecting drought-resistant crops

Through practical demonstrations and hands-on activities, women farmers gained valuable skills to increase their seed production and enhance their overall crop yields.

Overcoming Challenges Focus group discussions revealed the immense challenges faced by women farmers, including limited access to water, crop damage caused by livestock, and the emotional toll of food insecurity. However, these discussions also highlighted the resilience and determination of these women.

A Brighter Future By empowering women farmers with permaculture knowledge, WEZ is contributing to a more sustainable and food-secure future for Rufunsa District.

Success Story: Loveness Mwakapandula, a participant and Kasenga based farmer in Chongwe district, shared her experience of successfully implementing drought-resistant farming techniques and increasing her seed production. Her story inspired other farmers to adopt similar practices.
Testimonials: “This training has given me hope for the future,” said one participant. “I learned so much about how to grow more food with less water.”