A farmer from Chongwe District of Lusaka province has reported impressive earnings from his tomato cultivation, managing to support his farm’s daily operations solely from this crop.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Zambian Business Times (ZBT), Gammariel Lungu revealed that he produces approximately 250 to 300 boxes of tomatoes each week, resulting in a monthly income ranging between K120,000 and K150,000, depending on prevailing market prices.
Lungu also operates a diverse livestock farm, which includes 60 cattle, 60 exotic chickens, 20 pigs, and 20 village chickens. Initially, he owned around 250 pigs; however, rising feed costs last season necessitated the sale of part of his pig stock. In addition to his tomato production, Lungu practices crop rotation by incorporating maize cultivation to help maintain soil fertility. He dedicates approximately 20 hectares to maize production, which he sells as fresh produce to local market traders.
Currently, Lungu maintains his cattle primarily for prestige rather than for commercial purposes.
His holistic approach to farming emphasizes both crop and livestock management, contributing to his sustainable livelihood. Gammariel Lungu’s remarkable success story serves as a testament to the potential of diversified farming in Zambia. By leveraging his expertise in tomato cultivation and integrating livestock and maize production, Lungu has created a thriving agricultural enterprise that not only supports his family but also contributes to the local economy. His innovative approach to farming offers valuable lessons for aspiring farmers and highlights the importance of sustainable agricultural practices in achieving long-term success
