In collaboration with the Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA) initiative, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and Zambia Youth Agripreneurs (ZYA) organized a comprehensive training program from August 13th to 16th, 2024, at IITA’s offices in Ngwerere. The program aimed to equip smallholder farmers and youth with the skills to adopt modern farming techniques, enhance climate resilience, and explore agribusiness opportunities.

Key areas of focus included soybean seed production, climate-smart agricultural practices, and farm business management. Participants engaged in the “Farming as a Business” (FAAB) module, learning vital skills such as investment identification, budgeting, strategic decision-making, and maintaining farm financial records, which helped them view farming as a sustainable business.

The “Managing Climate Resilience” module highlighted methods for mitigating climate change impacts, promoting Conservation Agriculture (CA) practices like minimal soil disturbance, crop rotation, and soil cover maintenance to improve climate adaptability.

Through this training, participants gained valuable insights into boosting productivity, improving food security, and seizing new agribusiness opportunities amidst climate challenges