What is The SAM Project?
The SAM Project (Sustainability through Agriculture and Micro-enterprises) seeks to improve the living conditions in villages that have been hard-hit by the ravages of the HIV/AIDS pandemic and continuing climate change.
The SAM Project provides alternatives to traditional farming practices in order to diversify the village economy and teach new skills, helping break the
cycle of continuing rural poverty.
Working closely with Overland’s Rural Pastors Network and social workers, SAM identifies community needs and resources and then
sits down with the local stakeholders in order to
create micro-enterprises that are sustainable and appropriate to the needs of the community. The projects are designed, owned and operated by the villagers. The proceeds from the projects are then shared among the participating families.
To date, the SAM Project has assisted communities to establish businesses in vegetable gardening, beekeeping and egg production. The crops are sold in the local markets, which improves the nutritional choices of the community and reduces dependence on imported goods.
Another important initiative of the SAM Project is the establishment of community woodlots. Zambians rely on wood to provide nearly all their heating and 
cooking fuel, which has led to the harvesting of most of the indigenous forests. Woodlots provide a managed solution to community fuel needs and helps to stop the desertification of sub-Saharan Africa.
The SAM Project typifies Overland Missions’ committment to Holistic Christian Rural Development, and is one of the important programs that help us Raise up the Nations.
