Zambia

Reconciling income-generating activities and the promotion of biodiversity in Kafue Flats Biosphere Reserve

The Kafue Flats, a 6,500 km² floodplain, are located in southern Zambia between two dams. They are of great industrial, environmental and socio-economic importance to the country. The Kafue Flats supply fifty per cent of Zambia's hydroelectric power through the two dams. Livestock, fishing and sugar cane cultivation are the main economic activities in the densely populated region. They provide a livelihood for more than 2 million people. In addition to the social and economic benefits of the Kafue River, the wetland is of international importance for its rich biodiversity. The most famous animal found there is the Kafue lechwe, an endangered species of antelope. Part of the Kafue Flats has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2022.

Goat farming to support marginalised groups and protect biodiversity

In 2024, the Zambian National Commission for UNESCO, with support from the German Commission for UNESCO, began implementing a goat breeding project in the Kafue Flats Biosphere Reserve. The main activities of the project included training 150 members of two communities in the reserve in goat rearing, management, marketing and sustainability. The project also included the provision of land by the local authorities, the fencing of grazing areas, the construction of stables, the purchase of breeding animals (three different breeds of goats) and the close monitoring of breeding activities.

The aim of the project was to improve the long-term livelihoods of local communities, especially women, girls and other disadvantaged groups, through goat rearing, and to promote sustainable land use practices and biodiversity.