The week-long programme also provided space for networking, reflection, and the sharing of regional experiences among participants from across Zambia. Many leaders expressed a renewed commitment to applying what they learned to strengthen the governance of their own FFPOs and to support sustainable forest and charcoal production in their communities.
This initiative is a vital step in empowering grassroots forest and farm organisations to become drivers of sustainable natural resource management, rural development, and climate resilience, all grounded in the principles of good governance and social accountability.
From June 9–14, 2025, a dynamic group of 24 leaders representing Forest and Farm Producer Organisations (FFPOs) from Petauke, Nyimba, Choma, Mushindamo, and Mwinilunga gathered for a transformative training programme focused on Good Governance and Social Accountability. The training, held from Monday to Wednesday at Kasisi Agricultural Training Centre, was followed by an enriching exchange visit from Thursday to Saturday with the Cane Growers Group in Mazabuka.
This training is part of the FAO-supported project on Sustainable Charcoal Production, which seeks to promote responsible forest management and improved livelihoods through capacity-building and support for forest-based enterprises. The project recognises the crucial role that FFPOs—including cooperatives, clubs, associations, and Community Forest Management Groups (CFMGs)—play in managing forest resources sustainably, including both timber and non-timber products.
The main objective of the training was to enhance leadership capacity for transparent, accountable, and effective governance within FFPOs. Over the three-day session in Kasisi, participants engaged in interactive learning on principles of good governance, financial accountability, inclusive decision-making, and conflict management. These skills are essential for the smooth and credible operation of community-based forest enterprises, particularly in sectors like charcoal production where sustainability and legality are key concerns.
A key feature of the training was the exchange visit to the Cane Growers Group in Mazabuka, a long-standing outgrower scheme working with Zambia Sugar. This visit gave participants valuable exposure to a well-organised producer group that has demonstrated effective governance, contract management, and member benefit-sharing. Participants gained practical insights on how strong leadership and accountability systems contribute to long-term organisational success.
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