The Mpumba Community in Lavushimanda District, Muchinga Province, Zambia is situated in an area that serves as a strategic corridor linking Lavushimanda National Park and the South Luangwa protected area cluster. It therefore plays a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological connectivity across the Zambezi and Congo watersheds. The local communities depend on subsistence farming and charcoal production, which offer limited financial returns and contribute to environmental degradation. This cycle of poverty and environmental decline is exacerbated by a lack of diverse income sources and limited market access, deforestation, and climate change leading to food insecurity and biodiversity loss.

The TUI Forest Zambia programme addresses these challenges through an integrated agroforestry programme. It involves planting 950,000 trees, including species such as Gliricidia sepium, which are integrated into agricultural plots to enhance soil health, increase biodiversity, agricultural productivity and create sustainable sources of fuelwood and income.

The initiative engages 30 lead farmers and 1,700 follower farmers across 25 villages in the Mabonga, Mwenda, and Salamo areas in the Lavushimanda District. Each participating farmer commits 0.5 hectares, leading to a cumulative impact of 865 hectares. Extensive training will be provided to each lead farmer, who will then disseminate and train 1,700 follower farmers on agroforestry and conservation agriculture practices. Farmers will cultivate high-value crops, such as legumes and maize, ensuring an additional source of income for the participants.

This approach will enhance food security and enable the Mpumba Community to take an active role in conservation and sustainable development.

The initiative includes the development of a feasibility study to unlock the eco-tourism potential of the area. The study will explore eco-tourism routes and services, such as bushwalks highlighting local flora and fauna, which could offer new economic opportunities for the community.

By promoting sustainable land management practices, reducing deforestation and supporting economic development, the project creates a resilient and sustainable future for Mpumba, protecting both its rich biodiversity and the livelihoods of its residents.