The Soil Survey Unit provides a comprehensive inventory and assessment of Zambia’s soil resources to support their efficient and sustainable utilisation. Through systematic field surveys and accredited laboratory analysis, the Unit collects, classifies, interprets, and presents soil information that guides farmers, researchers, planners, and policymakers to make evidence-based decisions for crop production, land allocation, and natural resource management.
Our work spans reconnaissance to detailed surveys using geo-referenced sampling, profile pits, and auger observations, combined with GIS and remote-sensing tools. Laboratory tests cover texture, pH, organic matter, nutrient status, salinity, CEC, bulk density and related indicators. Results are quality-assured and compiled into a national soil database that underpins practical advice—from fertiliser recommendations and land-suitability ratings to erosion risk and irrigation feasibility.
This includes generating high-resolution soil maps for individual farms, harmonized maps for districts, and national-scale compilations. Each map characterizes key attributes—such as soil classification, texture, depth, organic carbon, pH, nutrient availability, salinity/sodicity risks, drainage classes, and erosion susceptibility—produced through field surveys, lab analyses, and GIS modeling. The outputs support site-specific fertilizer recommendations, water and residue management, land-use planning, and evidence-based resource allocation.
Crop Suitability Mapping is the process of matching crop requirements with specific soil characteristics—such as texture, depth, drainage, fertility status, pH, salinity/sodicity risks, and erosion susceptibility—to identify which crops (and varieties) are best suited to each soil unit. The resulting maps, produced at farm, district, or national scales, guide site-specific recommendations, optimize land use, reduce production risk, and support extension advice and investment planning.
Land Use Planning provides an evidence-based framework to support sustainable agriculture, forestry, and natural resource management. It matches land capability and soil–water conditions with suitable uses, establishes zoning and management guidelines, safeguards wetlands and forests, reduces erosion and conflict over land, and directs investments (roads, storage, irrigation) to the right places for durable, productive landscapes.
The Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI), in collaboration with the Seed Control and Certification Institute (SCCI) and the Plant Quarantine and Phytosanitary Service (PQPS), successfully
By Dorcas Kabuya Small-scale farmers in Choma, Chipata and Mumbwa districts have welcomed new knowledge on the use of organic pesticides, saying the approach will
Today, 23rd October 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture through the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI) joined Mount Makulu Secondary School in Chilanga to mark Zambia’s
Rome, Italy – 16th October 2025 – Zambia has been honoured with the FAO Global Technical Recognition Award for outstanding achievements in sustainable plant production
ZARI is a public institution mandated to conduct public good agricultural research in soils, crops and water
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