Evaluating Sustainable Agricultural Policies in Zambia: A Case of Choma District, Southern Province

The study was based on evaluating sustainable agricultural policies in Zambia: A case of Choma District, Southern Province. The objectives which guided the study were to establish the impact of Agricultural Input Subsidy programs on smallholder farmers and the overall agricultural sector, to analyse the effects of market liberalization on agricultural productivity and food security, and to investigate the implications of policy reforms on government resource allocation to agriculture and sector performance. a descriptive case study research design was adopted with a purposeful sampling technique for a sample size of 30 respondents based on saturation method of selection, due to statistical rigor and practical constraints (Creswell, 2014) [10]. Data from questionnaires were analyzed through thematic analysis, where recurring themes and patterns related to agricultural policies were identified. The key study finding on demographic data is that female farmers, middle-aged farmers, and those with moderate experience dominate the sector, highlighting the need for gender-responsive and age-appropriate policies. In this regard, the study concludes that agricultural policies must address the challenges faced by these groups, with a focus on enhancing access to resources, training, and market opportunities. Also, based on key findings, the study establishes that Agricultural Input Subsidy these programs have had a significant positive impact, particularly in increasing crop yields and empowering women, there are notable challenges (gaps in accessibility, logistical issues in distribution, and the over-reliance on subsidies) that need to be addressed. In addition, the study establishes that while market liberalization has improved agricultural productivity for some farmers and contributed to better food availability, it has also created significant challenges such as increased competition from imports, rising input and output prices, and the negative effects on local agricultural businesses which needs a nuanced approach to market liberalization. More so, the study concludes that while policy reforms have generally led to increased government funding, improved agricultural productivity, and enhanced food security, there are notable challenges (subsidy reductions, market liberalization, and the role of government) in the implementation and impact of these reforms. In line with the study conclusions, the researcher made recommendations and future study suggestions.