WHY A STRONGER FOOD SYSTEM STARTS WITH STRONGER PARTNERSHIPS

Zambia is strategically intensifying its focus on building a robust and resilient food system, recognizing that collaborative efforts are paramount to achieving national food security and sustainable agricultural growth. This proactive approach sees the nation engaging in a multitude of partnerships, spanning from bilateral agreements with international allies to collaborations with global organizations and the private sector. The overarching goal is to transform Zambia's agricultural landscape, moving away from fragmented interventions towards a more integrated, systems-based model that benefits all stakeholders, especially vulnerable smallholder farmers. Key among these initiatives is the Comprehensive Agriculture Transformation Support Programme (CATSP), a landmark national effort designed to coordinate agriculture, nutrition, water, and the rural economy. This program exemplifies Zambia's commitment to a holistic approach, bringing together government, farmers, and civil society to foster a more connected and inclusive food system. International support is also crucial, with the United Nations and the United States, through the Millennium Challenge Corporation, actively partnering with Zambia to transform its food systems. These partnerships aim to address critical areas such as improving agricultural productivity, strengthening supply chains, and tackling infrastructure deficits that have historically hampered growth in this vital sector. Private sector engagement is also gaining significant traction. For instance, Shoprite Zambia has expanded its local sourcing of fresh avocados through a partnership with the Lusaka Avocado Multipurpose Cooperative Society, representing approximately 500 farmers. This initiative not only provides a reliable market for local produce but also offers practical guidance to growers on product specifications and post-harvest handling, ensuring quality and increasing farmer incomes. Such collaborations are vital for creating sustai