ZDTP has now launched trials of an extension services delivery model with three cooperatives committed to investing in a community Extension Officer (EO) in the long term.
These pilots are being run in Liteta (Central Province), Mungaila (Southern Province) and Kwanshama (Copperbelt Province).
The business model being trialled is based on the cooperatives recruiting and paying an EO from the community, who will then serve cooperative members with extension support.
The return on investment is expected to materialise through increased milk volumes and improved milk quality.
ZDTP will provide shortterm, in-kind and financial support through the provision of a motorbike and fuel and maintenance costs for a period of two months.
During this time the model must prove itself.
The lessons learnt from the pilot will be documented and shared with other key stakeholders.
The model integrates the services of identified Master Farmers who will play a complementary role to the community EO in terms of outreach to the wider farming community with the limited cooperative resources that are available.