The Luangwa Valley region of Zambia is the setting for a pioneering initiative that is transforming the local economy and reducing human pressures on the valley's wildlife. Led by the Wildlife Conservation Society, COMACO has brought about substantial livelihoods and conservation benefits through a producer group model of collective learning, reaching more than 40,000 farming households with training in conservation farming techniques.

Farmers are invited to become COMACO members in return for adopting a package of eco-agriculture and organic farming techniques that both reduce the environmental impact of farming and drastically improve agricultural yields. COMACO purchases farm commodities through a network of depots and collection centres, alleviating transport costs and guaranteeing a premium for organic produce through the payment of an annual dividend to member farmers. The initiative has been particularly successful in converting poachers to farmers.

 

Key Facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2008

Founded: 2003

Location: Luangwa Valley, Zambia

Beneficiaries: more than 40,000 rural households

Biodiversity: North and South Luangwa National Parks

 

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