June 10, 2026
News
Smallholder farmers in Zambia face increasing pressure from limited access to water for production. Through irrigation development and farmer mentoring, Caritas Czech Republic is supporting communities to farm more productively and sustainably. For Alex and Lewis, this support has become a catalyst for growth, resilience, and improved livelihoods.
A New Chapter for Alex
At 49 years old, Alex from Mayukwayukwa has spent more than three decades farming, like many farmers in the area, he depended on agriculture to support his family, pay school fees, and meet daily household needs.
However, before receiving support through the irrigation scheme, farming was physically demanding and often yielded limited returns. Alex relied on manually drawing water from a nearby stream and carrying it to his fields—a labour-intensive process that restricted the amount of land he could cultivate and ultimately limited his production.
"Farming was difficult because watering crops required a lot of time and effort," he explains.
Through the project, Alex gained access to improved irrigation infrastructure and received training on better crop management practices. With a reliable water source and improved farming techniques, he expanded his cultivated area and diversified his vegetable production.
Today, his fields are thriving with a variety of vegetables. Most importantly, his monthly income has increased significantly.
The increased earnings have strengthened his household's food security and enabled him to provide more consistently for his family's needs. Looking ahead, Alex hopes to continue expanding his production while sharing his knowledge with fellow farmers in the community.
Farming as a Family Enterprise
At another irrigation site, Lewis is demonstrating how agriculture can become a sustainable family business when supported by knowledge, commitment, and access to resources.
As a lead farmer, Lewis has embraced farming not only as a livelihood but also as an opportunity for growth and long-term economic empowerment. She now has a healthy crop production and effective management practices at her garden, reflecting the skills and dedication she has invested in her farming activities.
One of the most inspiring aspects of a visit to her garden was the active involvement of her family. Lewis's daughter, who is currently in high school, was assisting with watering the crops and supporting daily farm operations.
Her participation highlights how farming knowledge, responsibility, and entrepreneurial values are being passed from one generation to the next. By involving her daughter in agricultural activities, Lewis is helping cultivate skills that can contribute to future self-reliance while strengthening the family's farming enterprise today.
The family's collective effort demonstrates that successful agriculture extends beyond individual farmers, it becomes a shared investment in household well-being, productivity, and resilience.
Growing Resilience Through Irrigation
Stories like those of Alex and Lewis illustrate the broader impact of irrigation development and farmer mentoring initiatives. Access to reliable water sources, combined with practical agricultural training, is enabling farmers to increase production, improve incomes, and create opportunities for their families.
Caritas Czech Republic remains committed to supporting smallholder farmers with innovative solutions that enhance productivity, strengthen food security, and create pathways toward long-term economic self-reliance.
