ZAMBIA – Zambian Breweries Ltd, subsidiary of the world’s largest brewer AB InBev, has kickstarted the sorghum planting campaign, a key commodity used in production of a number of its flagship beer brands.
The brewer joined farmers of Zimba in Southern Province of Zambia to kickstart the program which has since emerged as an important source of income for many farmers in the region.
Under the partnership initiated by the brewer five years ago, over 1500 farmers have acquired vital sorghum cultivation skills and essential inputs enabling them to thrive in modern agriculture.
While appreciating the role of the partnership, Alfred Sianjase, District Agricultural coordinator from the ministry of agriculture who was also present, “Such opportunities are rare. We therefore urge our farmers to grasp this and use it wisely.
The idea is for the farmers to produce profitably. This is key to improving incomes at household level. When there is improvement in household income, there is also improvement in the district’s economic welfare, which ultimately develops the country economically.”
In an effort to boost the production of white sorghum, main ingredient in producing the famous Eagle Lager, Zambian Breweries guarantees farmers the supply of essential ingredients and also offers a lifeline to the local farming community in Zimba.
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.
“As a business, Zambian Breweries prioritizes local sourcing to empower local farmers and create job opportunities. Through value addition, we aim to contribute to national income, reduce reliance on imports, and foster industrialization,” said Tawanda Hojane, Zambian Breweries Legal and Corporate Affairs Director.
Sorghum, known for its climate resilience, plays a crucial role in the Zambian Breweries’ efforts to align with the United Nations’ 2025 Sustainable Development Goals.
Zambian Breweries Plc is part of Belgium-based multinational brewer Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev).
The company has a number of leading beers brands in the country including Mosi Lager, Castle, Carling Black Label, Eagle, Flying Fish and Castle Lite.
Earlier this year Zambian Breweries announced an US$80 million capital investment to expand its Lusaka factory and create 5,000 jobs.
The investment is set to target the supply side of the business: improving technical services, brewing and enhancement of their cellars.
A significant portion of the investment will also be used to produce high-tech equipment to make operations more sustainable.
The investment will also include enlargements of the company’s agriculture out-grower schemes and offer procurement opportunities to local suppliers.
