In the heart of Zambia, a unique agricultural initiative is making waves, offering a glimpse into the potential of foreign land-based investments to boost smallholder productivity and sustainable practices. A recent study published in the *International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability* sheds light on the impacts of a nucleus-outgrower scheme (NOS) associated with one of the largest agricultural investments in the country. The research, led by Tekalign Gutu Sakketa from the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) in Bonn, Germany, provides valuable insights into how such schemes can drive technological adoption and sustainable land management.
Nucleus-outgrower schemes are collaborative arrangements where a central “nucleus” estate, often a large-scale commercial farm, partners with surrounding smallholder farmers, known as “outgrowers.” These schemes are designed to share resources, knowledge, and infrastructure, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. The study, which surveyed approximately 780 households over two rounds, reveals that participation in the NOS significantly increased the adoption of full-suite conservation agriculture (CA) practices among smallholder farmers.
Conservation agriculture, which includes practices like minimal soil disturbance, permanent organic soil cover, and crop rotation, is crucial for maintaining soil health and ensuring long-term productivity. “The adoption of these practices is a game-changer for smallholder farmers,” says Sakketa. “It not only enhances their productivity but also ensures the sustainability of their land, which is vital for future generations.”
However, the study also highlights that the impact on other technologies, such as improved seed varieties, is less clear and depends on the type of support and scheme design. This nuance underscores the importance of tailored interventions that address the specific needs and contexts of smallholder farmers.
The research further reveals that while the overall productivity impacts of the NOS are modest, the program contributed to significant maize productivity improvements during its initial phase. However, this impact diminished in later years as the focus shifted towards oilseed crops. This finding suggests that the effectiveness of such schemes can vary over time and across different crops, emphasizing the need for adaptive management strategies.
The commercial implications of these findings are substantial. For the agriculture sector, understanding the dynamics of NOSs can help in designing more effective and sustainable investment models. By fostering partnerships between large-scale commercial farms and smallholder farmers, these schemes can create a more inclusive and resilient agricultural sector. This can lead to increased productivity, improved market access, and enhanced livelihoods for smallholder farmers, ultimately contributing to food security and economic growth.
As the global community grapples with the challenges of feeding a growing population while ensuring environmental sustainability, the insights from this study offer a promising pathway. “Nucleus-outgrower schemes, despite their risks, have the potential to make substantial contributions to sustainable agricultural practices and improve smallholder productivity,” Sakketa notes. “By leveraging these schemes, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for agriculture.”
The research not only provides a roadmap for future investments but also underscores the importance of continuous evaluation and adaptation. As the agriculture sector evolves, so too must the strategies that support it. The findings from this study serve as a catalyst for further exploration and innovation, paving the way for more effective and sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.