By Samuel Saizi Mbewe

National Research and Seed Field Day Highlights Agricultural Resilience

The recent 2026 National Research and Seeds Field Day in Zambia, hosted at the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI) in Mount Makulu, showcased how innovation in seed development is helping farmers confront the  challenges of climate change and rising input costs. Both multinational companies and local organizations presented solutions aimed at improving crop resilience in drought- and flood-prone regions.   

Indigenous Seeds: A Sustainable Alternative

Among the key contributors was the Community Technology Development Trust (CTDT), which is championing indigenous seed varieties. These locally developed seeds are proving more accessible and sustainable for rural farmers, many of whom struggle to afford hybrid seeds and chemical fertilizers.

Unlike commercial varieties, indigenous seeds can be reused, shared and cultivated with organic inputs such as animal manure and Bokashi compost.

Global Pressures, Local Solutions

CTDT’s Seed and Marketing Manager, Joseph Mitumwa, emphasized how global geopolitical tensions particularly in the middle east are increasing the cost of agricultural inputs.

“As global oil and fertilizer supplies are constrained, and prices skyrocket, the ripple effects are heading straight for our food plates,” he warned.

Mitumwa explained that hybrid crops often fail under extreme conditions, while indigenous seeds thrive. Working with ZARI, CTDT has developed resilient maize and sorghum varieties such as Kapyabwangu, Gankata and Kafwamba, which adapt to diverse climatic conditions and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers.

Farmers’ Voices: Resilience in Practice

Smallholder farmers are already seeing the benefits. Hillary Moono, from Chikankata District, testified that adopting indigenous seeds has enabled farmers in his area to maintain production without costly synthetic fertilizers. He encouraged other farmers to embrace drought-tolerant local varieties.

Meanwhile, Sherry Ng’andu of Chirundu praised CTDT’s collaborative approach, noting that participating in seed development has empowered farmers and improved food security.

She added that indigenous seeds not only withstand drought but also provide improved nutritional value.

Investing in the Future

As climate change and global economic pressures continue to reshape agriculture, Zambia’s National Field Day highlighted the importance of resilient, locally adapted farming systems. Indigenous seed innovations are not just a fallback,  they represent a strategy for sustainable food security.

Download the Sustainable Organic Agriculture Manual by KATC from here

Image caption: A variety of local seeds displayed at the Zambian Traditional Seed and Food Festival.

Credit: Rabecca Mwila