Mary Ward International and the Loreto Sisters are committed to supporting the rural community of Lukulu in Western Zambia. A key initiative is the development of a sustainable food production enterprise at the Sancta Maria College of Nursing and Midwifery, addressing the critical needs of food security and education.
The Sancta Maria College, a vital institution for training healthcare professionals, faces the challenge of providing three meals a day to its students. To meet this need sustainably, the college has developed a farm on underutilised land. Already equipped with essential machinery like a tractor and plough thanks to a generous donor, the farm helps provide nutritious meals for students while reducing catering costs.
Looking ahead, the college aims to expand its farm operations. This includes installing a solar-powered irrigation system, enhancing maize production through specialised equipment, and establishing a chicken run and piggery. These steps will ensure the college becomes self-sufficient in food production, while also offering valuable agricultural training and employment to local youth.
The initiative goes beyond feeding students – it’s about creating long-term sustainability for the college and the community. By reducing reliance on external food sources, the college can focus more on education and skills development, empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals in this disadvantaged region of Zambia.
The project also introduces environmentally sustainable practices, such as the use of solar energy and advanced irrigation techniques. Involving local youth in farm operations provides them with critical skills in agriculture and renewable energy, helping to break the cycle of poverty and build stronger, more self-sufficient communities.
Through this initiative, Mary Ward International is not only addressing immediate food security challenges but also laying the groundwork for a brighter, more sustainable future for the people of Lukulu.
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