Agriculture is a cornerstone of Zambia’s socio-economic development, employing 51% of the labor force and providing a primary food source for over half of the population, predominantly through smallholder farming. This desk review professionally examines the critical role of stakeholder engagement in the successful implementation of donor-funded agricultural projects in Zambia, where reliance on external aid can often overshadow local ownership of development initiatives. Using an expert review methodology, this study synthesizes literature from peer-reviewed journals, project reports, and case studies to analyze stakeholder engagement practices and their impact on project outcomes. Findings reveal that, in such contexts, projects frequently encounter challenges that disrupt intended outcomes, underscoring the importance of effective stakeholder engagement. Results show that insufficient understanding of stakeholder expectations and inconsistent involvement frequently lead to project delays, unmet objectives, and diminished impact. Drawing on insights from similar international projects, particularly within African contexts, this review identifies common causes of implementation delays and effective engagement strategies that improve project outcomes. The findings emphasize that prioritizing stakeholder involvement is essential for achieving sustainable and impactful development results. Policy recommendations include the integration of the 4P framework and tailored stakeholder engagement strategies to enhance community buy-in, ensure relevance, and promote long-term benefits in Zambia’s agricultural sector.
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