Women Scientist to Women Farmers: Hydrogel Innovation for Green Future

This project aims to address the challenges posed by Zambia’s increasing droughts, which significantly impact rural communities, particularly women’s cooperatives like Booma Women Cooperative. The cooperative has struggled with planting and sustaining native oil-bearing trees such as Moringa oleifera and Colophospermum mopane due to extreme drought conditions. The project will introduce hydrogel technology, which retains and slowly releases water to plants during dry periods, helping farmers grow trees with minimal water usage. This innovative approach has been tested in Ethiopia and Zimbabwe, with promising results. Kamila Hejlikova, the project implementor, will work closely with the local partner, Booma Women Cooperative, to ensure successful tree planting and sustainable production.

The project will research and apply hydrogel technology to combat climate change by enhancing tree survival in arid conditions. The hydrogel, which can retain a significant amount of water, will be used to support the growth of at least 400 tree seedlings, while training women in hydrogel-based tree planting, protection, and pest management. Additionally, women will be trained in circular economy practices, including the use of tree by-products in cosmetics and animal nutrition. The project’s expected outcomes include the successful establishment of tree plantations, diversification of production through oil-bearing trees, and the development of two new products. Kamila Hejlikova and the Booma Women Cooperative will work together to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project, focusing on empowering women and fostering resilience in the face of climate change.