Overview
Since its inception in March 2022, the FARM STEW Programme has seen remarkable growth and acceptance across Zambia. Beginning with a single rural community comprising 44 households, the initiative has expanded to 81 communities with 2,696 households by March 2024, spanning all 10 provinces of the country. This rapid expansion, especially between December 2023 and March 2024, was fuelled by the successful training of 35 Bible Workers who now serve as FARM STEW Planters. While the programme primarily focuses on rural areas (93%), a small portion (7%) is active in urban Lusaka.
Certification of households is a key component of the programme, requiring participants to complete three successful cycles of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA). To date, 48 households have achieved full Certification, with 130 more approved, including 42 in urban areas. An additional 168 households are actively progressing towards certification. By Q4 2024, FARM STEW Zambia aims to certify 346 households, with many more expected to follow. Monthly reports indicate significant positive changes in both physical well-being and spiritual growth, with increasing community interest in Bible studies and the distribution of Bibles.
Despite its success, the programme faces challenges, particularly in overcoming initial opposition and suspicion in new areas, where residents often come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Building trust and gaining acceptance require sustained effort, prayer, and resilience from the team. Nevertheless, the programme’s transformative impact on communities has been a testament to its value and potential for continued growth and success.
FARM STEW Project Updates
In partnership with Wilderness Gate, FARM STEW has launched a successful beekeeping project within its first certified community. The initiative began with 40 households, each receiving two beehives, totalling 80 hives, with plans to distribute an additional 120 hives, giving each household five. The first honey harvest, expected to be a strong yield, is scheduled for May through June 2024. The honey will be purchased from the communities under contract, with the proceeds reinvested into the FARM STEW mission, ensuring its sustainability.
Additionally, FARM STEW has initiated an agroforestry project on an island within a wetland swamp area, involving over 250 households across five communities. The project includes the planting of 800 fruit trees within two weeks, alongside intercropped vegetables, fruits, herbs, and succulents that act as natural pesticides and enrich the soil. This project aims to provide resources to sustain the FARM STEW mission while empowering the participating communities with enhanced food security and economic opportunities.
Community Activity
Bee Keeping Training & Operations
Agroforestry Project
