As I reflect on all that I witnessed on Mbabala Island, I cannot help but feel incredibly grateful. God has impacted so many lives through the sustainable farming practices of Bright Hope International and our local partners.
When I first arrived on the island, I was struck by the beauty of the landscape. Fishing huts line the shoreline and lush greenery frame the horizon. But as I began to interact with the people, I realized the harsh realities they face every day. Extreme poverty, lack of basic amenities, and limited access to education and healthcare rob them of hope.
However, amidst the challenges, I also saw hope and resilience in the people. And through our partnership with the local churches and the Christian Farmers Association (CFA), we are working together to bring sustainable change to the community.
Sustainable Farming Through the Christian Farmers Association
One of the most impactful programs we have implemented on the island is our community farming initiative through the CFA. Through training in sustainable agriculture practices, local farmers have increased their crop yields. And they can also provide for their families. I remember visiting one of the CFA demonstration plots where local farmers were learning how to plant crops more efficiently. Truly, I could see the excitement in their eyes. They couldn’t wait to learn new skills that could improve their livelihoods.
In addition, our education initiative on Mbabala Island has also brought hope to the community. We have built three preschools there, giving lifelong skills to hundreds of kids. These schools provide a safe and nurturing environment for young children where they can learn and grow. I had the opportunity to visit one of the schools. I could see the joy on the faces of the children as they sang and played together.
But what struck me most during my time on the island was the deep sense of faith and community among the people. Despite their challenging circumstances, they remained grounded in their faith and were grateful for the support they received from Bright Hope and our partners. I saw God’s love at work in the kindness and hospitality of the people, and it was truly humbling to be a part of it all.
Farming in Zambia Creates a Hopeful Future
As we continue our work on Mbabala Island, I am excited to see the long-term impact that we can have through our partnership with the local churches and the CFA. Together, we are building a brighter future for the community, one filled with hope, opportunity, and most importantly, God’s love.
Click here to learn more about our sustainable farming work in Zambia. And please consider how you can get involved.
