Social Constructions of Sustainability Among Smallholder Farmers in Matching Grant-Supported Agricultural Projects

Abstract

Financial sustainability of the matching grant-supported farming enterprise post-matching grant period for smallholder farmers has been a concern for both international development agencies and the government, considering the financial investment involved. This study explores how farmers and government implementers perceive and construct the sustainability of smallholder enterprises following the conclusion of matching grant support. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions from 19 Participants consisting of farmers and government staff who participated in the implementation of the matching grant program in Chipili district of Zambia. The Participants were selected using purposive sampling, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings indicate that farmers’ constructions of sustainability are shaped by a combination of social, organizational, and economic factors, including Clearly Defined Tangible Benefits for members, Reliable Markets, Sense of ownership, Strong Leadership and Cohesive Group Dynamics, Effective Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer, Proactive Reinvestment and Diversification, Robust Market Linkages, Value Addition, Meaningful beneficiary contributions, Financial Literacy, Post-Grant Mentorship and Continuous Support. The study underscores the importance of understanding sustainability not merely as a financial outcome but as a socially constructed process, influenced by collective practices, knowledge sharing, and an ongoing support mechanism. The study recommends that farming enterprise supported by the matching grant to be successful and sustainable post-grant, the Ministry of Agriculture should continue to offer post-grant mentorship, enhance market linkages, while international organisations should have a clear project exit strategy and sustainability plan agreed upon by both the government and farmers.