Community Markets for Conservation

COMACO participated in the 2026 World Environment Day Exhibition held at Lusaka National Park under the theme, “Accelerating Zambia’s Climate Action for Green Growth and Sustainability.”

Among the visitors to the COMACO stand was the guest of honor Joe Kalusa, Permanent Secretary for Lusaka Province. During his visit, the team highlighted how COMACO’s work aligns with this year’s theme through support for tree planting, sustainable agriculture, land management initiatives, and livelihood transformation for former poachers.

COMACO also showcased its It’s Wild! product range at the exhibition, demonstrating how locally sourced, sustainably produced, wildlife friendly and forest friendly products help mitigate the impacts of climate change.

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This is what climate-smart farming looks like: healthier soils, stronger crops, and farming methods that work with nature, not against it.

Through COMACO’s agroforestry approach, small-scale farmers are integrating Gliricidia trees into their fields to naturally restore soil fertility, reduce dependence on expensive chemical fertilisers, and improve crop productivity over time. As the trees shed their leaves, the organic matter decomposes and releases valuable nutrients, especially nitrogen, enriching the soil and supporting healthier crop growth.

Beyond improving yields, Gliricidia plays a critical role in helping farmers adapt to climate change. The trees help retain soil moisture, reduce erosion, and provide organic mulch that protects the land from harsh weather conditions while improving overall soil structure.

What makes this approach sustainable is that it transforms the farm itself into a long-term source of fertility. Instead of relying heavily on external inputs, farmers are building resilient farming systems that continue to improve season after season.

Meet Christopher Chisi, the voice behind the Farm Talk radio program across COMACO West, covering parts of Central and Muchinga Provinces.

Every week, he produces Farm Talk, a COMACO radio program that shares practical tips on conservation farming, soil health, and sustainable practices. This helps small-scale farmers improve yields while protecting the environment.

Through Farm Talk, he also conveys COMACO’s messaging on crop purchasing, weather updates, and other essential information, acting as COMACO’s voice to the communities.

Christopher’s work goes beyond broadcasting. He visits farmers in the field, learning about their challenges and successes. He interviews and records them, giving farmers a platform to share their knowledge and experiences. When their voices are heard on Farm Talk, communities learn from each other, and real stories from the field inspire meaningful change.

“My work is directly linked to other departments within the organisation because we operate as a team, working together to reach more farmers and educate them on conservation practices and agroforestry.”

In Lumika Cooperative, located in Chief Kabamba’s chiefdom in Serenje District, COMACO is helping farmers access the knowledge they need to improve their livelihoods by empowering them with two key tools, the Better Life Book and Solar Radios. These resources offer guidance on the farming calendar and conservation farming practices that improve soil fertility, protect the environment and increase productivity.

One farmer bringing this knowledge to life is 51-year-old Rodgers Bangwa, a dedicated Producer Group Trainer. Rodgers gathers members of his producer group under the shade of trees to listen together to Farm Talk, a radio program based on COMACO’s Better Life Book. The program covers essential conservation practices, such as Gliricidia transplanting and compost making, which help improve soil fertility and support sustainable farming.

“We do not just listen and go home,” Rodgers explains. “After the program, we discuss what we have learned so that everyone understands how to apply the practices in their fields.”