At Likondwama Primary School in Sioma District of Western Zambia , a remarkable transformation is taking place one that demonstrates the power of believing in change and investing in sustainable solutions.
Not long ago, the school garden stood as a dry, sandy, and largely unproductive piece of land. Despite the community’s desire to grow nutritious crops for learners, limited access to water and irrigation infrastructure made farming difficult. The garden struggled to support meaningful agricultural production, leaving untapped potential in a community eager to improve food security and nutrition.
Today, that same piece of land tells a different story.
Through ADRA Zambia’s Sustainable Livelihoods and Improved Nutrition (SLIN) Project, Likondwama Primary School has witnessed a transformation that is improving lives and creating opportunities for learners, teachers, and the wider community. The installation of a water system and support for school gardening activities have turned what was once a barren field into a thriving and productive garden.
Rows of healthy crops now stretch across the garden, providing a visible symbol of resilience, hard work, and hope. The reliable water supply has enabled the school to cultivate vegetables throughout the growing season, ensuring that learners have access to fresh and nutritious produce while gaining practical agricultural skills.
The transformation goes beyond agriculture. The garden serves as a living classroom where pupils learn about nutrition, environmental stewardship, climate-smart agriculture, and the importance of sustainable food production. It also strengthens the school’s ability to contribute to improved nutrition among learners while promoting self-reliance within the community.
For teachers and community members, the garden is proof that lasting change is possible when communities are empowered with the right resources and support. What once appeared to be an empty and unproductive space has become a source of food, learning, and inspiration.
The before-and-after images of Likondwama Primary School’s garden capture more than physical change, they tell a story of transformation, determination, and the impact of investing in people. They remind us that with vision, partnership, and commitment, even the driest ground can flourish.
Through the SLIN Project, ADRA Zambia continues to work alongside communities to create sustainable solutions that improve livelihoods, strengthen resilience, and build brighter futures for children and their families.
As the crops continue to grow, so does the hope that every child at Likondwama Primary School can learn, thrive, and look forward to a healthier future.
“At ADRA, we believe that transformation begins with opportunity. The change witnessed at Likondwama Primary School shows what can happen when communities are equipped with the resources they need to succeed. From a dry and underutilized space to a thriving garden, this initiative is helping improve nutrition, learning, and livelihoods while inspiring the next generation to embrace sustainable agriculture,” said ADRA project officer Hebron Mwale.
Story by Memory Musamba
Pictures by Hebron Mwale
English