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Located in the heart of Zambia, the Kafue Flats is a rich and diverse ecosystem, home to two national parks – Lochinvar and Blue Lagoon – and surrounded by a vast Game Management Area (GMA). This region is a Ramsar Wetland site, serving as a sanctuary for countless migratory bird species. It is also home to the Tonga and Ila people, who have lived on these floodplains for generations, practicing a combination of fishing, farming, and livestock management. During the dry season, herders bring large cattle herds into the floodplains, using traditional methods passed down through generations. Yet, as the floodwaters retreat, most communities move to permanent settlements on the outskirts of the biosphere reserve.

However, with increasing pressures from human activity and climate change, the Kafue Flats is facing significant environmental challenges. The experts involved in the Earth Network mission were tasked with helping develop strategies to address these issues.

The mission began with a series of virtual planning sessions before the experts arrived in Zambia. Once on-site, they met with key authorities, including the Ministry of Technology and Science and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, to discuss the needs of the KFBR. A major task was the creation of a management structure that would coordinate the various stakeholders in the area, ensuring sustainable development while safeguarding the local environment.

Through consultations with traditional leaders and local communities, the mission focused on crafting a governance framework that aligned with the values and cultural traditions of the area. A multi-day workshop was held to discuss the role of traditional leadership in conservation efforts and explore potential management approaches. This workshop led to the creation of an interim governance structure, which included the International Crane Foundation and the Buntu Biosphere Foundation, both of whom already have experience in the region. A permanent governance structure is set to be established by 2025, driven by a new NGO that will incorporate both public and private stakeholders from the region.

The Earth Network mission also identified critical opportunities for sustainable development. Experts highlighted the potential for local communities to engage in ecotourism initiatives, such as showcasing the area’s natural hot springs or offering homestay experiences to tourists. This not only provides an income for the communities but also helps raise awareness of the area’s unique biodiversity.

The mission also explored how to create partnerships with research institutions and universities, both locally and internationally, to enhance scientific knowledge and conservation efforts in the KFBR. Such partnerships would provide valuable income-generating opportunities for the community while contributing to global biodiversity conservation goals. The experts shared successful case studies from South Africa, where research collaborations helped bring new expertise and financial benefits to local populations.

One of the most pressing concerns in the Kafue Flats is overgrazing, which leads to land degradation. The experts recognised this challenge and discussed ways to support local farmers in adopting more sustainable agricultural practices. They suggested a programme that could certify and standardise local agricultural products, such as meat and milk, ensuring that they meet biodiversity and sustainability standards. This would not only help preserve the land but also offer farmers higher returns by marketing their products both locally and internationally.

Additionally, the experts introduced the concept of using invasive plant species as biochar – a sustainable organic fertiliser. This innovative solution addresses both the problem of invasive species and the need for healthier farming practices, creating a win-win situation for the environment and local farmers.

The mission outcomes in the Kafue Flats mark a significant step towards building a sustainable future for both the people and the environment. The creation of a governance structure, the promotion of community-led initiatives, and the encouragement of sustainable farming practices all contribute to preserving this unique biosphere while supporting the livelihoods of the people who depend on it.

Through continued collaboration and the implementation of these strategies, the Earth Network project helped to build a foundation for long-term sustainability in Zambia’s Kafue Flats, ensuring that both the land and its people thrive for generations to come.