Zambia is pioneering the use of behavioural science to promote climate-smart agriculture and improve food security. Through the Sustainable Intensification of Agriculture in Zambia (SIFAZ) and FACE-NDC initiatives, the nation is assisting thousands of smallholder farmers in adopting climate-resilient technology and sustainable practices. The initiative, which was announced at the 19th FAO Subregional Multi-Disciplinary Team Meeting for Southern Africa, represents a new phase in linking science, behaviour, and agricultural innovation.
Agriculture remains one of Zambia’s largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, driven by land-use change and expansion. While awareness of sustainable techniques has expanded, societal and cultural hurdles frequently prevent adoption. To address this, the FAO and its partners are implementing behaviour-based climate education, which makes sustainability messages more relevant to local communities.
Teams of behavioural experts, agronomists, and communication specialists are engaging farmers, women, and youth in community dialogues, peer learning, and mentorship. This participatory approach has improved trust and knowledge sharing throughout farming networks.
So far, over 47,000 farmers have received training, resulting in yield improvements of up to 60% and profit gains of 40%. As the model spreads across the country, it contributes to the transformation of Zambia’s agriculture industry into a resilient, low-emission system that empowers farmers as agents of change.
