Comparative Study of Livelihoods and Food Security Status of Sugarcane Out growers and Non-Cane Growers, Magobbo Scheme, Zambia

In recent times there is a surge in the number of large-scale agricultural based investments. The most common form of large-scale land based investment in Zambia is the out grower scheme. This study is a comparative study of the livelihoods pathways and food security status of out growers in the Magobbo Out grower scheme, Zambia and non cane out growers surrounding the out grower scheme. The livelihoods of the cane growers are slightly better than that of the non-cane growers. The cane out- growers have access to better water facilities; electricity and more income earnings though they have more debts compared to the non-cane growers. On the other hand the non-cane growers were in a survivalist livelihood mode, they were struggling to make ends meet and they straddled subsistence farming and wild fruit selling. In terms of food security at 6.00 Household Dietary Diversity (HDD) index, the food security of cane growers’ was higher standing at 74.3 percent than non-cane growers at 46.9 percent. The study draws from a mixed method approach. The qualitative method was used to explore the livelihoods of the two groups. Quantitative techniques such as t test were done to assess the food security and insecurity of the two groups. A total of 151 households (HH) (70 cane-growers and 81 HH of non-cane growers) participated in this study. Keywords: Sugar cane Outgrower; Non- cane Outgrower; livelihoods; food security; Zambia

A Comprehensive Study on the Livestock Sub-Sector Analysis and its Role in Fostering Sustainable Development in Zambia: Insights from the 2022 Livestock Survey Report

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Zambia\u27s dynamic livestock sub-sector as of April 30, 2022, drawing insights from the 2022 Livestock Survey Report. With 1,801,075 households actively engaged in livestock activities, the sub-sector emerges as a vital component of the country\u27s rural livelihoods. Understanding the interplay of household characteristics and livestock populations is pivotal for crafting sustainable development policies that enhance the well-being of the sub-sector\u27s participants. Gender dynamics within the livestock sub-sector underscore the central role of men as household heads and primary decision-makers. This necessitates targeted initiatives to empower women, fostering their active involvement and amplifying contributions that lead to improved household prosperity, expanded economic opportunities, and the preservation of indigenous knowledge. Zambia\u27s diverse livestock population, with a significant presence of 4,698,972 cattle, plays a crucial role in ensuring protein availability, bolstering nutritional security, and contributing to household incomes. Goats, sheep, and pigs also feature prominently, meeting various demands for meat, milk and other essentials. Recognizing the unique contributions of each livestock species allows for tailored strategies to improve their productivity and welfare. Addressing provincial disparities in livestock production and resource utilization is imperative for achieving sustainable development goals. Provincial variations in agro-ecological conditions, market access, and infrastructure necessitate context-specific interventions. Such approaches can harness provincial strengths, optimize resource utilization, and stimulate value chain development. Moreover, this study highlights opportunities in honey production and milk output. Apiculture and beekeeping investment can aid biodiversity conservation through pollination services while fostering high-quality honey production. Tailored capacity-building and infrastructure development can address provincial disparities in milk production, benefiting smallholder dairy farmers and the broader dairy industry. This study underscores the livestock sub-sector\u27s pivotal role in sustainable development, food security, and rural livelihood enhancement in Zambia. By embracing responsible, inclusive strategies and evidence-based insights, policymakers, stakeholders, and development practitioners can optimize the sub-sector\u27s potential. Focusing on household well-being, gender inclusivity, and provincial equity will foster a resilient and thriving livestock sub-sector, benefiting all segments of society and paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for Zambia