Zambia’s agricultural sector faces a pivotal transformation following the United States Agency for International Development’s withdrawal, prompting calls for innovative approaches to sustain food security and rural development gains.
Dr. Oliver Bulaya, a renowned Climate Smart Agriculture authority, has characterized USAID’s departure as a “significant shift” with far-reaching implications for the country’s agricultural value chains and rural livelihoods.
For decades, USAID played a central role in strengthening Zambian agricultural systems through comprehensive support including farmer training in sustainable practices, market access enhancement, and nutrition-sensitive agriculture promotion. These interventions enabled smallholder farmers to access credit facilities, improve yields, and develop business skills that facilitated operational scaling and household income increases.
“USAID enabled smallholder farmers to access financial services that transformed subsistence farming into viable commercial ventures,” Dr. Bulaya explained. “These interventions not only improved agricultural output but also strengthened community health and economic participation.”
The agency’s investments in research and infrastructure created vital connections between farmers and regional and national markets, while promoting technologies specifically adapted to Zambia’s climatic and ecological conditions. These technological advancements established foundations for improved food systems and job creation, generating additional benefits through increased tax revenue contributions.
With USAID’s exit, Dr. Bulaya emphasized the urgent need for strategic recalibration of agricultural development approaches. He specifically urged non-governmental organizations and development actors to reduce dependence on external donors and instead build innovative partnerships with local entities.
“Local NGOs must rethink their operational models,” he advised. “Diversifying income streams and forging alliances with Zambian businesses can ensure financial sustainability and continued community impact.”
The agricultural expert believes that while USAID’s withdrawal presents undeniable challenges, it also creates opportunities for Zambia’s agricultural ecosystem to achieve greater maturity and self-reliance. This transition requires coordinated efforts from government, private sector, civil society, and farming communities.
“This moment demands bold thinking and coordinated action. By embracing strategic adaptation, Zambia can not only safeguard recent agricultural gains but also unlock its full potential for growth and food security,” Dr. Bulaya stated.
The post-USAID era will test Zambia’s ability to maintain momentum in agricultural development while building sustainable financing mechanisms and partnerships. Success will depend on how effectively stakeholders collaborate to fill the institutional and financial void left by the agency’s departure.
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