Location: Chadiza District , Eastern Province Zambia
Farm Stew Team:
- Thomas Mwale Bible Worker / Planter
- Daniel Lungu – Farm Stew Trainer / Coordinator
Tidziwe Community
Thomas Mwale, a Bible Worker trained by Farm Stew in November 2023, has overcome the challenges of a severe drought to establish five Farm Stew Communities. These communities consist of 40 to 50 households each, with a combined total of 216 households. One of these, Tidziwe Community, has been learning how to create effective compost piles to improve their agricultural practices.
Masuku Community
Another group, Masuku Community, is undergoing the same training in compost-making. This process has inspired community members to plant a wider variety of vegetables that thrive without chemical fertilisers. These kitchen gardens, introduced by Farm Stew, are transforming the way families grow their food, especially in areas previously reliant on seasonal crops and chemical inputs.
Adapting to the Drought
Despite the drought, which has depleted wells and dried up streams, Thomas Mwale continues to encourage efficient use of scarce water resources. In Tidziwe Community, some households have excelled, such as Doris Banda and her grandchildren, whose kitchen garden is thriving despite the challenging conditions.
Leadership by Example
Headman Chimate of Chimate Village and his wife, Rhonda, are setting a strong example. They have implemented a latrine, a tippy tap for handwashing, and a mulched kitchen garden, showcasing sustainable practices for the entire community.
