The Food Forest Foundation
Welcome to the Food Forest Foundation
At the Food Forest Foundation (FFF), we are turning a bold vision into reality: to protect and restore one of Africa's most vital ecosystems—the Katambora Floodplain and the Zambezi River region. This area is strategically located just 50 km upstream from the Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Learn More), and 30 km from the Kazungula Bridge Project, a vital trade corridor that connects southern Africa to the African Continental Free Trade Area (Learn More).
This makes the Katambora Floodplain a critical point on the map, offering not only environmental significance but also a unique opportunity for sustainable development, cultural preservation, and economic integration.
🌳 Who We Are
The Food Forest Foundation is more than an organisation—it’s a living, thriving community. Based along the Zambezi River in Zambia, we manage 20,000 hectares of critical floodplain and forest ecosystems, working closely with the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment.
With two years of impactful operations and a leadership team with over 20 years of experience in Africa, we design and create drought-resistant food forests that are both sustainable and resilient. These food forests allow for daily harvesting—unlike traditional farming, which yields crops only a few times a year. Our continuous, year-round approach grows stronger over time, providing lasting food security and ecological balance.
🌿 What We Do
Turning the Barren into the Bountiful
Our work transforms degraded lands into thriving ecosystems. Using innovative methods, like those detailed here, we are scaling up our efforts. We currently operate an experimental field where we test strategies for large-scale rollouts of food forests.
Our Research Centre
We don’t just restore ecosystems; we study them. Our Research Centre serves as a hub for workshops, educational farm tours, and scientific studies on biodiversity, hydrology, and sustainable agriculture. By hosting these events, we aim to inspire and educate others about the transformative potential of food forests.
Community Empowerment
We empower local communities through sustainable livelihoods. With 25 permanent staff, we directly support over 200 people in our community.
- We’ve established a community business to foster a circular economy.
- Our women’s initiatives and youth farming clubs provide opportunities for skill development and leadership.
- Soon, we’ll open a traditional medical clinic to preserve cultural knowledge of natural remedies, ensuring traditions are passed down for generations.
🌍 Why It Matters
The Katambora Floodplain has been vital since the dawn of time. It plays a critical role in:
Water Security
The Katambora Floodplain acts as a natural water regulator, playing an indispensable role in managing the flow of the mighty Zambezi River. During the rainy season, the floodplain absorbs excess rainfall like a sponge, preventing destructive flooding downstream. In the dry season, it gradually releases stored water, ensuring a consistent flow that sustains communities, wildlife, and agriculture across the region.
This natural regulation reduces the risk of severe droughts and floods, which can devastate livelihoods. By maintaining water quality and flow, the floodplain supports agriculture, drinking water supplies, and hydropower generation—essential lifelines for millions of people across southern Africa. Without the floodplain, the delicate balance of water in the Zambezi River Basin would be lost, jeopardising lives, economies, and ecosystems.
Biodiversity
The floodplain is home to an incredible diversity of life, from towering trees like African ebony and mangosteen to a rich variety of animals, including elephants, hippos, and countless bird species. These species depend on the floodplain’s delicate balance of water, vegetation, and soil. By restoring this ecosystem, we protect critical habitats, ensuring the survival of species that contribute to the region's ecological richness.
Climate Resilience
Forests like the Katambora Floodplain are nature’s climate warriors. Acting as powerful carbon sinks, they absorb vast amounts of CO₂, mitigating the impacts of global warming. Reforestation efforts also combat soil erosion, stabilise temperatures, and reduce the severity of extreme weather events. This creates a more stable and resilient environment for people and wildlife alike.
Cultural and Economic Stability
Since the beginning of time, the Katambora Floodplain has been integral to local ways of life. Its fertile soil supports farming, fishing, and forestry, providing sustainable livelihoods. It also holds immense cultural significance as a spiritual and communal gathering place. Protecting this land ensures that these cultural traditions and economic opportunities endure for generations to come.
💡 How You Can Help
For the first time, we are opening our project to skilled volunteers from around the world. We are seeking passionate and knowledgeable individuals to join us for 2-3 months to lay the foundations for a self-sustaining and empowering model of community living.
Our Immediate Needs
- Permaculture and Vegetable Gardening
The vegetable garden is the heartbeat of our community—nourishing not only the body but also the soul. Food grown with care and intention becomes a source of life, health, and unity. Our gardens feed our volunteers, local families, and staff while serving as a model for sustainable agriculture.
We have fertile soil, reliable water sources, and an enthusiastic team eager to learn. Now we need experts to design and implement professional permaculture or syntropic farming systems. With your guidance, our gardens will not only provide sustenance but also inspire and educate others, showcasing a continuous, ever-strengthening cycle of abundance. - Construction and Carpentry
Strong, sustainable infrastructure is vital for our community’s growth. While we have skilled builders and quality materials, we need an experienced carpenter or builder to lead the team. Together, we’ll construct essential structures such as kitchens, shelters, and storage facilities, using durable, traditional methods. These projects will create spaces that foster community and ownership while respecting the environment. - Culinary Skills and Food Preparation
Food is at the heart of every culture. We need a chef or experienced cook to transform fresh produce into nourishing meals while teaching locals the art of farm-to-table eating. By developing sustainable, easy-to-follow recipes, this role will promote health, creativity, and appreciation for the land’s bounty.
Opportunities to Learn
If you are eager to learn these skills—from permaculture to carpentry or sustainable cooking—we can provide hands-on training with in-house experts during your stay. This is a chance to gain practical experience while contributing to an inspiring project.
Have Other Skills to Offer?
If you have expertise outside these areas—such as water management, renewable energy, or education—tell us your ideas, and let’s make it happen!
🌿 Join Us on This Meaningful Journey
Your contribution will:
- Build a sustainable foundation for food security.
- Empower local communities with lasting skills.
- Foster cross-cultural collaboration and understanding.
Together, we can restore the Katambora Floodplain and create a legacy of resilience and hope.
Explore our work, join the movement, and help us preserve the planet for generations to come.
The last 6 months Nov 2024
The Food Forest Foundation has achieved significant milestones over the past six months, solidifying
1. Major Accomplishments
1.1 Tree Planting Initiatives
- 50,000 Trees Planted: We have successfully planted 50,000 trees, creating a foundational layer for food-producing forests that will support biodiversity and improve soil health.
- 1,000 Trees at Kazungula Hospital: In partnership with the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and the local district council, we planted 1,000 trees at Kazungula Hospital, contributing to its beautification and long-term sustainability.
1.2 Sustainable Agriculture
- Chilli Farming Expansion: We planted 6.5 hectares of chillies, now in production, with plans to sell the harvest to an NGO at $1,000 per ton. This initiative generates sustainable revenue for our community.
- Rice Cultivation: We cultivated 4 hectares of rice, which is set to be harvested this month, marking another step toward food security and economic empowerment.
1.3 Irrigation Development
- 10 Hectares Under Irrigation: We expanded our irrigation infrastructure to cover 10 hectares, ensuring consistent crop production throughout the year. This milestone supports resilience to seasonal climate fluctuations.
2. Partnerships and Collaboration
- Ministry of Green Economy and Environment: We continue to work closely with the Ministry to align our efforts with Zambia’s national sustainability goals.
- Local District Council: Our collaboration with the local council has facilitated seamless project execution and community engagement.
- Community Engagement: We empowered 20 full-time employees and supported 480 community members through training and resource access, paving the way for sustainable livelihoods.
3. Current and Future Goals
3.1 Expanding Community Impact
- Women’s Empowerment Programs: We are developing tailored initiatives to equip women with agricultural skills and leadership training.
- Youth Training Initiatives: Plans are underway to train the next generation in sustainable farming practices and entrepreneurship.
3.2 Livestock Integration
- Livestock and Poultry Farming: With access to abundant grazing land and water, we aim to establish livestock farming and village chicken clubs to enhance nutrition and provide income opportunities.
3.3 Scaling Irrigation
- Our priority is to further expand irrigation infrastructure to cover more fields, boosting productivity and enabling additional crops to support community needs.
4. Challenges and Solutions
4.1 Limited Resources
- Challenge: The expansion of our initiatives requires additional equipment and materials.
- Solution: We are actively seeking partnerships and funding from NGOs, government agencies, and private organizations to address resource gaps.
4.2 Climate Resilience
- Challenge: Unpredictable climate patterns affect agricultural yields.
- Solution: We are integrating climate-smart agricultural practices and diversifying crops to mitigate these impacts.
5. Call for Support
To continue driving positive change, we invite supporters to join our mission. Your contributions can help:
- Scale irrigation systems.
- Fund women’s and youth empowerment programs.
- Support livestock and poultry farming initiatives.
- Expand reforestation efforts to replicate the success of Katambora Food Forest across the Zambezi region.
The Challenge
Africa faces a daunting environmental and socio-economic crisis. Approximately two-thirds of the continent is covered by deserts or drylands, with nearly 75% of these areas classified as degraded. This widespread land degradation poses a significant threat to livelihoods, biodiversity, and the overall ecological balance.
Pervasive Poverty and Resource Dependence
In many African communities, poverty is deeply entrenched, and people rely heavily on natural resources for survival. Agriculture, fishing, and forestry form the backbone of local economies, yet these activities are increasingly under threat as land becomes less fertile and water sources grow scarcer. Overexploitation of natural resources, combined with climate change, accelerates degradation and leaves communities vulnerable to food insecurity and economic instability.
Desertification and Its Ripple Effects
The expansion of deserts and the degradation of drylands have far-reaching consequences. Loss of arable land reduces crop yields, driving up food prices and deepening hunger. Vegetation loss exacerbates climate change by reducing carbon sequestration, while soil erosion leads to the silting of rivers and the loss of vital water systems. Entire ecosystems are at risk, along with the communities and wildlife that depend on them.
Economic Growth Hinges on Land Restoration
Addressing these challenges is not just about environmental conservation—it’s a critical step toward economic growth and social advancement. Restoring degraded land unlocks its potential for agriculture, forestry, and sustainable development, providing jobs, stabilizing food supplies, and boosting local economies. Moreover, rehabilitated ecosystems can act as natural buffers against the impacts of climate change, reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience.
A Call to Action
The intertwined issues of land degradation, desertification, and drought are not insurmountable. By investing in restoration, sustainable farming practices, and community-driven initiatives, we can reverse the cycle of poverty and environmental decline. This is a pivotal moment for African countries to embrace transformative solutions that promote both ecological health and socio-economic progress.
The Solution
Food forest farming is a transformative permaculture technique that mirrors the structure and function of natural ecosystems to create a thriving and sustainable source of food. By planting multiple layers of food-producing trees, shrubs, ground covers, and climbing plants, food forests form dense, diverse ecosystems where each layer serves a vital purpose.
- Ecological Harmony: Every layer of the food forest works in synergy, attracting beneficial insects and birds that help control pests, pollinate plants, and maintain ecological balance. The roots of various plants enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen and other essential nutrients, while fallen leaves and organic matter create a natural composting system that continuously improves soil fertility.
- Natural Climate Adaptation: These systems are inherently resilient to seasonal changes and climatic fluctuations. Canopy trees provide shade to sensitive plants, reducing water evaporation and protecting them from extreme heat, while understory plants retain soil moisture and prevent erosion. This adaptability ensures that food forests remain productive even in challenging environmental conditions.
- Low-Maintenance Sustainability: Unlike traditional monoculture farming, food forests require minimal external inputs. They are designed to be self-sustaining, with plants and trees supporting one another, reducing the need for artificial fertilizers, pesticides, or irrigation. Over time, they mature into ecosystems that need less human intervention while continuing to produce food abundantly.
- Community Resilience: By providing a reliable and diverse food source year-round, food forests empower communities to withstand environmental and economic challenges. In regions prone to droughts, floods, or other climate-related events, these ecosystems act as lifelines, ensuring food security and reducing dependence on fragile supply chains.
- Cultural and Social Benefits: Beyond food production, food forests foster stronger communities by creating shared spaces for learning, collaboration, and mutual support. They integrate traditional knowledge with modern sustainable practices, revitalizing cultural heritage and promoting intergenerational knowledge sharing.
- A Path to Regeneration: Food forests go beyond sustainability—they actively regenerate degraded landscapes. By reintroducing native and diverse plant species, they restore ecosystems, combat desertification, and support wildlife habitats, making them a powerful tool in combating global biodiversity loss and climate change.
Why It Matters
In historically precarious conditions where environmental changes can devastate crops and livelihoods, food forests offer a solution rooted in nature’s wisdom. They provide not only a steady source of food but also hope, empowerment, and the tools to build a more resilient, self-sufficient future. By adopting food forest farming, we can transform vulnerable communities into hubs of ecological and social regeneration, paving the way for a healthier planet and stronger societies.
Our Ethos
Our Mindset
Rural African communities are abundant in potential, with access to fertile land, natural water sources, and rich cultural heritage. However, this potential often remains untapped due to the dual challenges of climate change and economic isolation. These communities face cycles of food insecurity, resource depletion, and limited access to markets or infrastructure, making resilience a constant struggle.
At the Food Forest Foundation, we see these challenges as opportunities. By introducing syntropic farming practices, we aim to transform this untapped potential into abundance and self-reliance.
Harnessing Syntropic Farming
Syntropic farming is more than a method—it’s a mindset. It mimics natural ecosystems by integrating trees, crops, and ground cover in a way that regenerates the soil, retains water, and increases biodiversity. This technique ensures that each component supports the others, creating a thriving, self-sustaining agricultural system.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
- Climate Adaptation: Syntropic farming builds resilience to climate variability by improving soil health and water retention, enabling communities to produce food even in adverse conditions.
- Economic Empowerment: By leveraging local resources and creating high-yield systems, communities can break free from economic isolation, producing surplus food for trade or sale.
- Ecological Restoration: These practices regenerate degraded lands, transforming them into productive landscapes while preserving native biodiversity.
The Vision
We envision a future where rural African communities harness their natural and human resources to achieve food security, economic independence, and environmental harmony. By empowering these communities with the tools and knowledge for syntropic farming, we are fostering self-reliance, sustainability, and hope for generations to come.
Our Partners
