As I reflect on my recent visit to Zambia, I am struck not only by the warmth of the welcome we received but also by the depth of partnership that has been built with Jersey over recent years. This is a country with which we share more than just development goals; we share a vision of resilience, empowerment and prosperity for smallholder farmers and their communities.
There is no substitute in seeing first-hand the impact that Jersey-funded programmes are having overseas, meeting the individuals whose lives are being transformed and reinforcing key partnerships that enable this to happen. Over a 6-day programme, I had the privilege of introducing our new Patron, the Lieutenant Governor of Jersey, to our work in Zambia and the partnerships we have forged in recent times, including with the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and the British High Commission, as well as our implementing partners.
Jersey’s unique role in Dairy for Development
Zambia is one of Jersey Overseas Aid’s (JOA) six target countries and one where our Dairy for Development work is making significant, measurable impact. Our programmes here are rooted in the belief that dairy farming, when done sustainably, can lift communities out of poverty, improve nutrition, and create long-term economic opportunity.
The Jersey cow is at the heart of this transformation. Known for its resilience in extreme climates and nutrient-rich milk, the Jersey breed is ideal for smallholder farmers in Zambia. And as the home of the Jersey breed, we are proud to share this uniquely valuable animal (through breeding programmes), and the expertise that comes with it, with farming communities across Africa.
Farmers leading the change
One of the highlights of this trip was presenting the Jersey Herd Competition trophy to Mrs Zewelanji Mbao at her farm in Chongwe. The herd competition is an important initiative supported by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock (MFL), ADRA, the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society (RJA&HS) and the Herdbook Society of Zambia, aimed at promoting Jersey cattle among smallholders, improving dairy management, and identifying training needs in climate-smart animal husbandry. The event held a profoundly personal touch to me as one of the names etched on the trophy is none other than my great uncle, Charles John Labey, who won the trophy in 1915.
At the event I was joined by the Minister for Fisheries and Livestock, Honourable Peter Chibwe Kapala MP, and the new British High Commissioner to the Republic of Zambia, H.E. Rebecca Terzeon, who highlighted our joint endeavour to support meaningful, lasting impact through dairy programmes. At his address, the Minister said:
"While many programs are implemented nationwide, this one is particularly unique. My government is taking deliberate steps to enhance livestock production, productivity and market access. The availability of Jersey semen straws is a strategic opportunity to improve daily health, increase profitability and transform enterprises. We are proud to position Zambia as a major hub for Jersey cattle, a breed we understand is a favourite of His Majesty King Charles III and we believe this breed is especially well suited for small scale for smallholder farmers in Africa."
H.E. the Minister for Fisheries and Livestock, Honourable Peter Chibwe Kapala MP
Our visit also included farm tours, technical demonstrations, and the chance to talk directly with farmers, many of whom are women. These hardworking individuals are seeing tangible benefits from their involvement in JOA-funded projects and are seizing the opportunity to build better lives. Their stories are a powerful reminder of why we do this work.
Voices from the field
Meeting Mrs Effatah Jele, a trailblazing female dairy farmer from the Copperbelt district, was an unforgettable experience.
A growing partnership
Jersey’s commitment to Zambia is formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock which was signed in 2022. In our meeting with the newly appointed Minister, we reaffirmed our dedication to deepening this partnership, particularly as we prepare to launch a new dairy programme in 2025 with our long term partner, RJA&HS.
We also discussed the African Jersey Forum, which Zambia will proudly host in 2026. This will be a vital platform for sharing knowledge, building networks, and strengthening dairy development across the continent.
Sharing our work with our Patron
It was a privilege to be joined on this visit by JOA’s Patron, His Excellency Vice Admiral Jerry Kyd CBE. His presence helped underline the importance Jersey places on international development and, as an outward-facing island, the strength of the relationships we have built through our work. It was an honour to introduce him to our partners, the farmers we support, and the wider vision we are pursuing together in Zambia.
Why this work matters
JOA currently manages eight active projects in Zambia and this investment reflects not just our expertise, but our values. As an island that knows the power of community and resilience, and the importance of building relationships through soft power, Jersey stands with Zambia in striving for a more sustainable, equitable future.
As Minister for International Development, I could not be prouder of what our aid and international development agency is achieving. This is international development that works - it’s strategic, effective, and accountable, and uses Jersey’s knowledge and expertise in the Dairy and Financial Inclusion sectors to bring real value and lasting change. It is a reflection of the generosity and humanity of the people of Jersey.