ZARI’s Plant Protection Division plays a critical role in safeguarding Zambia’s agricultural productivity. The division is committed to developing, evaluating, and adapting both pre-harvest and post-harvest technologies that help farmers prevent crop losses caused by pests, diseases, and storage-related challenges. This includes promoting integrated pest management practices, environmentally sound control methods, and improved storage technologies that reduce post-harvest damage.
In addition to its research and technology development work, the division provides comprehensive diagnostic services for the identification of pests, diseases, and other crop health issues. Through laboratory analyses, field assessments, and advisory support, the division equips farmers, extension officers, and other stakeholders with accurate information and practical management strategies. These services enable farmers to make timely decisions, protect their crops more effectively, and ultimately minimize economic losses while improving yields and food security.
The unit focuses on generating and adapting effective disease management technologies that help farmers protect their crops throughout the production cycle. This includes developing practical, science-based solutions that can be applied in different farming systems to reduce the impact of major crop diseases. In addition, the unit provides timely disease identification and advisory services, offering farmers and extension officers accurate diagnoses and clear guidance on appropriate control measures. Through these efforts, the unit supports increased crop productivity, improved decision-making in the field, and reduced losses at both small- and large-scale levels. Soil survey services are provided at Mount Makulu and other regionally based stations i.e Kabwe Research Station and Copperbelt Research Station.
The unit generates practical and research-driven technologies that support effective insect pest and weed control across diverse cropping systems. Its work includes developing and promoting integrated management strategies, environmentally responsible control options, and improved application techniques that help farmers reduce pest pressure and maintain healthy fields. Alongside this, the unit offers advisory services that provide farmers and extension staff with accurate guidance on identification, monitoring, and control of major insect pests and weeds. By combining technology development with hands-on support, the unit helps mitigate the negative impact of pests and weeds on crop yield and quality, ultimately contributing to more resilient and productive farming systems.
The Unit focuses on generating, improving, and adapting a wide range of post-harvest technologies designed to minimize crop losses caused by storage pests and related factors. Its work includes developing improved storage structures, promoting safe and effective grain protection methods, and introducing technologies that enhance drying, handling, and preservation of agricultural produce. The unit also evaluates emerging post-harvest solutions to ensure they are suitable for local farming systems. Through these efforts, the unit helps farmers maintain the quality, safety, and market value of their crops long after harvest. Soil Microbiology unit also offers microbiological analytical services such as microbial count and soil respiration.
ZARI is a public institution mandated to conduct public good agricultural research in soils, crops and water
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