By TROY MUKUPA
Meet Belinda Katongo Chikwanda, a trailblazing entrepreneur, devoted mother, supportive wife, and diligent student who embodies the essence of multifaceted excellence. Her remarkable journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to promoting agricultural diversity, sustainable farming practices, and nutrition.
As a student at NRDC, Belinda conducted research on the link between agricultural diversity and diet diversity, which sparked her interest in promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Her passion for nutrition and agriculture led her to create Agri-Nutrition With Belinda, a platform that showcases the nutritional benefits of various crops and promotes sustainable farming practices.
“I want to empower farmers to diversify their crops and improve their diet diversity,” Belinda explains. “By working with seed companies and farmers, I aim to promote sustainable agriculture practices that benefit both the environment and the community.”
During her time at NRDC, Belinda’s research focused on the importance of crop diversification. She notes that the Zambian government’s emphasis on diversifying agriculture beyond maize production, through the Ministry of Agriculture, resonated with her own research interests.
“In my second year, I did my attachments with the Ministry of Agriculture, which sparked my interest in the field,” Belinda says. “I realized that I could make a meaningful contribution to addressing malnutrition by promoting sustainable agriculture practices.”
Notably, Belinda was the only nutritionist from her class to join the Ministry of Agriculture, as many of her peers opted to join the Ministry of Health instead. This unique path has allowed her to bring a distinct perspective to her work.
Through Agri-Nutrition With Belinda, she works with seed companies and farmers to promote sustainable agriculture practices. She shares her knowledge of nutrition and agriculture with her followers, highlighting the benefits and nutritional value of various crops.
“For example, during the okra season, I partnered with a seed company to promote the crop and provide guidance on how to plant, harvest, and prepare it,” Belinda explains. “My goal is to empower farmers to grow a variety of crops, which will improve their diet diversity and contribute to national food security.”
Belinda’s work has not gone unnoticed. Seed companies have taken notice of her platform and are now reaching out to her with proposals to collaborate on projects. Her innovative approach to agriculture and nutrition has also led her to enroll in a degree program in agricultural economics at Mulungushi University.
As a busy entrepreneur, Belinda credits empowering others and planning as key to her success. “I’ve trained people in my business to help me manage multiple tasks,” she says. “Planning is also essential to navigating my life and achieving my goals.”
Belinda’s future plans are ambitious. She intends to expand Belamert Fashion and Designs, opening a fabric shop and creating a team to help her manage the business. She’s also planning to pursue an MBA after completing her degree in agricultural economics.
“I am a very ambitious person, and I see myself growing beyond what I have achieved now,” Belinda says. “My plan is to continue learning and growing, and I believe that pursuing an MBA will help me achieve my goals.”
In addition to her professional pursuits, Belinda acknowledges the unwavering support of her husband, who has been instrumental in her personal and professional growth. “I am grateful for the blessing of a supportive partner, who has encouraged me to push beyond my limits and pursue my passions,” she says.
“My diverse interests in agriculture, nutrition, fashion, and entrepreneurship are all driven by a common goal – to make a positive impact in my community and life,” Belinda explains. “Through my work, I promote sustainable agriculture practices, express my creativity through fashion, and empower farmers, ultimately making a meaningful contribution to society.”
Belinda’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. As a woman, she has faced numerous challenges, but her unwavering commitment to her passions has enabled her to overcome them. And as she continues to grow and achieve her goals, her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone looking to make a positive impact in their community.
The ripple effects of Belinda’s work are far-reaching, with the potential to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and change-makers. Her innovative approach to agriculture and nutrition has the potential to transform the way we think about food security and sustainable development.
In conclusion, Belinda Katongo Chikwanda’s remarkable journey is a shining example of multifaceted excellence. Her dedication to promoting agricultural diversity, sustainable farming practices, and nutrition is an inspiration to many women, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.