Formation
OPPAZ is short form for the Organic Producers and Processors Association of Zambia
which is a national organic movement operating in Zambia in the Southern African Region.
OPPAZ was created in August 1999 by a group of farmers keen to promote and
expand the opportunities of organic agriculture.
Legal Status
OPPAZ was registered on 4 September 2000 on registration number ORS/102/35/2270
under the provisions of the Societies Act Cap 119 of the Laws of Zambia.
OPPAZ is a non-profit making organisation.
Vision
A strengthened Zambian organic sector
Mission
To provide technical and specialist services so that accessible local and export
routes are established to create an opportunity for income generation for the
Zambian farmer through organic and fair trade agricultural production and processing.
Goal
To develop and actively promote organic production using sustainable methods as complementary
efforts to government initiatives for national economic growth and poverty reduction
Objectives
- To support and promote the development of income generating and diversification opportunities for Zambian organic farmers and processors
- To support and promote the development of smallholder rural based primary production and processing of organic agricultural products
- To develop and actively promote sustainable methods of organic agricultural production
- To encourage and support development of mutually supportive networks with strategic partners
- To lobby government and advocate for pro-organic policies and a national organic regulatory framework
- To represent the organic fraternity and maintain integrity of the organic sector in Zambia
OPPAZ Membership
OPPAZ membership is open to corporate commercial entities, cooperative societies,
farmer groups and individuals alike. Persons involved in any way with genetically
modified materials may not join OPPAZ
Governance Structure
OPPAZ is managed by an elected Board of seven directors led by a Board Chairperson.
OPPAZ members meet at the Annual General Meeting to provide strategic guidance and
approve strategic plans, review progress and elect Board Members. The routine functions
of OPPAZ are carried out by a Technical Secretariat headed by the Chief Executive Officer
who also acts as Secretary to the Board.