Zambian Breweries commissions newly upgraded US$80M plant 

ZAMBIA – Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema has officially commissioned the Zambian Breweries Plc upgraded plant valued at US$80 million that aims to foster sustainable economic growth and create employment in the region. 

Zambian Breweries Plc is part of Anheuser-Busch InBev, the largest brewer in the world, with more than 400 beer brands and some 200,000 employees in over 50 countries. 

While speaking at the event accompanied by officials from the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), the president reiterated that his government is focused on bringing in additional investments into the country in a bid to create much-needed jobs to foster the country’s economy.  

Hichilema commended the brewery for its crucial support to over 4000 sorghum and cassava farmers among many other crops through their out-grower scheme. 

“Growth can only come through investments such as these. Trade within the economy – to sell, to buy goods and services within this economy but also beyond the national boundaries of Zambia.

When we grow the economy and investment, we will be able to create the much-needed jobs, business opportunities for the people of Zambia,” he further noted. 

In November 2023, the Eagle producer joined farmers of Zimba in Southern Province of Zambia to kickstart the sorghum planting campaign which has emerged as an important source of income for many farmers in the region.   

Each harvest season, the brewing company purchases over 4000 metric tonnes of sorghum from local farmers, promoting financial inclusion among the residents in rural areas.   

Chipoka Mulenga, minister of commerce, trade, and industry highlighted that the opening of the facility marks a crucial moment for the country’s commerce, trade, and industry, applauding the brewer’s commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. 

In December 2023, Zambian Breweries Plc partnered with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) for a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the productivity and resilience of the Kafue lower sub-catchment.   

The collaborative efforts aim to raise awareness, build capacity, and empower communities to actively participate in the conservation and sustainable use of water resources.   

Michelle Kilpin, Zambian Breweries Country Director said, “The US$80 million capital investment into the expansion of the Mungwi Road plant reflects the company’s commitment to unlocking local opportunities, reducing import reliance, and broadening export options.” 

Zambian Breweries is one of the country’s oldest companies listed on the Lusaka Securities Exchange. It has long been a key player in Zambia’s economic landscape, contributing to the nation’s tax income, and is among the first to actively participate in national economic initiatives such as the Lusaka Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) programme. 

Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. HERE