The Terrible Truth behind Soil Harvesting: Preserving Zambia's Natural Balance

Across Zambia, truckloads of “black soil” roll into suburbs every day, promising lush lawns and thriving flowerbeds. To many gardeners, this seems like a shortcut to greener gardens. But in reality, every load represents a piece of woodland or wetland stripped bare, and a rural ecosystem put at risk.

Soil harvesting may look harmless, but it is quietly destroying our catchments, woodlands, and rivers. And gardeners are part of the problem. By demanding black soil, we are paying for the removal of nutrients and habitat that should stay in the wild.

Soil harvesting is the practice of extracting soil from natural environments, such as woodlands, riverbeds, or other ecosystems, for various purposes, including gardening, construction, or decorative use. As gardeners, we are also complicit in the destruction of these woodlands every time we make an order for a truckload of soil to be delivered to our homes.

This video documentary shows the effects gives an insight into sand mining in neighbouring Zimbabwe.

Black Soil

The allure of black soil, with its richness and fertility, has long been a temptation for gardeners seeking to enhance their lawns and flowerbeds. Often sourced from woodland areas, this soil contains organic matter and nutrients essential for plant growth. However, its extraction disrupts this delicate balance, depriving the ecosystem of vital nutrients and disturbing habitats.

Moreover, not all black soil is the same, some may have a high clay content which may create other difficulties. Clay, though fertile, can hinder water penetration, leading to drainage issues and waterlogged soil. This not only affects plant health but also exacerbates erosion and runoff, further destabilizing the surrounding environment.

River Sand

The problem doesn’t stop with soil. River sand and pebbles, stripped from waterways, destabilize riverbanks, increase erosion, and leave communities vulnerable to flooding. Alternatives such as crushed gravel or recycled construction material can do the same job without the ecological cost.

For example, Kafue River which is the lifeline for Kafue town and farms is also a hub for sand harvesting. One can only imagine what will happen to this natural waterway once the riverbed is irretrievably damaged.

This video show just a small part of the damage being done to Kafue river banks, during the dry season.

Sustainable Alternatives

Instead of plundering natural habitats, consider composting organic matter from your own garden or investing in locally sourced compost. Additionally, incorporating organic amendments like composted manure or leaf mold can enrich the soil without causing harm to the ecosystem.

Many households actually throw away garden waste, grass cutting and leaves, into the garbage, but all of these can be processed to become a very valuable resource.

Cultivating Harmony with Nature

At the heart of this issue is one uncomfortable truth: we are complicit. Every bag of soil, every load of sand, every pebble-strewn flowerbed represents a choice. And if we continue choosing quick fixes, Zambia’s woodlands, wetlands, and rivers will continue to pay the price.

The good news? The solutions are simple. Compost. Mulch. Plant diversely. Use what you already have. These practices cost little, restore balance, and protect the ecosystems that sustain us.

We cannot claim to love our gardens if we destroy the landscapes that make them possible. Zambia needs gardeners who cultivate not only beauty at home, but also harmony with nature. The choice is ours.