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The plant is set to raise the processing capacity of milk from 35,000 to 100,000 litres.
The plant is poised to support the small-scale farmers and is expected to generate an additional 1,000 indirect jobs for the local people.
Zambeef Products chairperson Jacob Mwanza said the plant would treble ZamMilk’s processing capacity from 35,000 per day to 100,000, adding that it would be able to process 35.6 million litres per year.
“The only way of supplying that quantity of raw material into the plant is to enlist the support of the small-scale farmers in surrounding areas to supplement Zambeef’s existing production at Kalundu,” Dr Mwanza said.
Speaking during the opening of ZamMilk dairy processing plant in Chisamba, Dr Mwanza said this would definitely enhance the backward and forward linkages that empower small to medium scale farmers who would partner with the company to ensure food security through a steady supply of Zambian grown inputs for Zambeef.
“Zambeef Products has invested in excess of $2.5 million in this new plant. Zambeef will continue to expand its operations across the group in a similar manner because our goal is to transform the agribusiness sector and develop it into the driving force of the Zambian economy,” Dr Mwanza said.
Speaking at the same function, Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Emmanuel Chenda said Zambeef’s decision to expand its operations in Zambia serves as an indicator of Zambia’s great and vibrant economic future.
“Government appreciates and supports investments that enhance economic growth and the business opportunities that come with it.
“This investment is expected to trigger economic growth, transfer modern technologies, skills development and improved standard of living of our people especially small-scale dairy farmers,” he said.
Mr Chenda said the opening of the plant would not only benefit 10 permanent employees but also benefit more than 1,000 small-scale dairy farmers through this assured market.
“With this investment and anticipated growth in milk supply, we expect milk consumption per capita to rise by 7 per cent from the current 19 to 25 litres. This will lead to improved health for our people,” Mr Chenda said.
[times of zambia]
