A transformative model for regenerative agriculture is emerging in Africa, spearheaded by Nzatu, an impact company that began its journey in rural Zambia. Initially, this endeavor was a grassroots effort led by two sisters who shared their knowledge of beekeeping and intercropping with local smallholder farmers. Fast forward to today, and Nzatu has evolved into a globally recognized food business, impacting thousands of farmers across 15 African nations.
Nzatu’s mission is to foster a sustainable economy for African farmers by enhancing market access and ensuring better prices for their products. In a significant shift from traditional practices, Nzatu connects clients directly with farmers, bypassing large traders who often dominate the market. This direct relationship not only empowers farmers but also allows consumers to engage with the source of their food in a more meaningful way.
The company’s initial focus on honey production has expanded to include a range of products, including a newly launched coffee line that is now reaching consumers in the United States and Europe. For Nzatu’s founder, Gwen Jones, the initiative transcends mere commerce. “We are there to bring a more harmonious social, economic, and environmental, holistic experience to our communities and our consumers,” she explains.
Nzatu’s approach encompasses a comprehensive training program for smallholder farmers, covering regenerative agricultural practices, soil health, and market linkages. This multifaceted model mirrors the intercropping techniques it promotes, creating a synergistic environment that benefits farmers economically, socially, and environmentally. Beekeeping remains a cornerstone of Nzatu’s strategy, providing farmers with an additional income stream. With honey fetching $3 per kilogram, compared to a mere 20 cents for maize, beekeeping offers a significant economic advantage for smallholders.
Nzatu encourages farmers to diversify their crops, promoting indigenous grains like millet and sorghum, which not only enhance soil health by fixing nitrogen but also offer superior nutritional value. Jones highlights the stark contrast in nutrient density: maize contains only 3% nutrients, while sorghum and millet average around 27%. This shift in crop focus could play a crucial role in combating malnutrition, a pressing issue in many regions of Africa.
Despite the benefits, Jones acknowledges the challenges in persuading farmers to transition away from maize, a staple that constitutes a significant portion of caloric intake in Sub-Saharan Africa. To facilitate this shift, Nzatu organizes educational events that showcase the versatility of ancient grains, including cooking demonstrations and recipe days that highlight their potential in everyday meals.
Nzatu’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond agriculture. The company actively promotes wildlife conservation and educates communities about endangered species, aiming to reduce human-wildlife conflict. Jones emphasizes that their work is not solely about trading coffee or cocoa; it encompasses a broader vision of environmental stewardship and community well-being.
The interconnectedness of agricultural practices, economic stability, and environmental conservation is a central theme of Nzatu’s philosophy. Michele Sofisti, co-founder of Nzatu’s European arm, articulates this systemic approach, underscoring the importance of recognizing the link between poverty, deforestation, and climate change. By improving farmers’ incomes, Nzatu empowers them to make more sustainable choices, ultimately contributing to both community resilience and environmental health.
Nzatu’s recent expansion into international markets, particularly with its Njuki coffee, exemplifies its growth trajectory. The coffee is sourced from farmers in Africa and processed in Italy before being distributed in Europe and North America. This strategy not only provides farmers with a broader market but also raises awareness among consumers about the positive impact of their purchasing decisions on wildlife conservation.
As Nzatu continues to scale its operations, it serves as a model for how regenerative agriculture can create sustainable economic opportunities while addressing pressing social and environmental challenges. By integrating traditional farming practices with modern market strategies, Nzatu demonstrates that a holistic approach to agriculture can yield benefits that extend far beyond the farm, fostering a healthier planet and communities.