Training of Agricultural Scientists and Journalists in Zambia

Two key challenges limiting adoption of effective agricultural interventions in Africa are poor interpretation of data and inappropriate communication of scientific solutions to non-scientific audiences like farmers and policy makers. IPNI SSA program and its partners brought together 40 Zambia lead scientists from national agricultural research centers, universities, private research bodies and international research centers between the 4^th and 8^th of May 2015 for a training on experimental designs, data collection/quality control, data analysis and development of appropriate data driven communication products for popular press, policy makers, extension workers and farmers. Emphasis was laid on biophysical, economic and social aspects of analysis and reporting. In partnership with CABI and the University of Zambia, IPNI trained 15 journalists from key media houses in Zambia on how to work with scientists in reporting appropriate scientific information in a clear and concise manner. Represented media houses included; Zanis, NAIS, Agri Coop News, Zambia Daily Mail, Jamia Radio Phoenix and the Prince Prime TV.