ZAMBIA – Zambeef Products PLC, a leading player in Zambia’s food retailing industry, hosted a few government officials at its Mpongwe Farm on the Copperbelt in a visit aimed to showcase the company’s substantial investments and commitment to boosting Zambia’s food security agenda.
In attendance were the Minister of Finance & National Planning, Hon Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, and the Minister of Agriculture, Hon Reuben Mtolo Phiri, MP.
It was evident that amidst climate change challenges, Zambeef is responding to the demands for food security by diversifying its maize cultivation cycle.
The company is currently conducting trials for winter maize cultivation at its Mpongwe farm, with over 130 hectares of land already planted, and further progress on about 700 hectares at Chiawa farm.
This initiative follows the successful cultivation of over 40,000 tons of early maize, which is presently being harvested.
The cultivation of winter and early maize will complement the rain-fed maize harvest.
According to the company, Zambeef remains steadfast in its commitment to capitalize on opportunities and aims to ensure a consistent maize supply throughout the year.
During the visit, Zambeef CEO, Ms. Faith Mukutu, expressed gratitude to the Ministers for their weekend visit and underscored Zambeef’s dedication to supporting the government’s food security initiatives.
“We are extremely delighted and commend the Ministers of Finance and Agriculture for taking the time to visit the Zambeef Mpongwe farm. As Zambeef we remain committed to supporting the Government’s efforts to promote food security. As a growing local company our vision is to not only feed Zambia but also the region.” she said.
The Minister of Agriculture commended Zambeef for its bold approach to exploring winter maize cultivation and its successful early maize crop in 2024.
He encouraged other farmers, both large and small, to emulate Zambeef’s initiatives.
Similarly, the Minister of Finance and National Planning applauded Zambeef’s efforts, stressing the importance of increased production for driving economic growth.
He highlighted the significant impact that multiple farming units like Zambeef could have on food security.
The CEO of Stanbic Bank, Mr. Mwiindwa Siakalima, who was there with the team, concurred with the Ministers’ views and gave Zambeef credit for its role in increasing maize output.
In a testament to its commitment, Zambeef plans to supply 20,000 metric tonnes of maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) in the forthcoming crop marketing season, aiming to supplement efforts to address the food security situation in the country following crop failures in various parts of the nation.
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