ZAMBIA – Zambeef Products Plc, one of Zambia’s largest vertically integrated agribusinesses, has expanded its range of brands by commissioning a US$12 million wheat milling plant in Mpongwe, Copperbelt Province.
This new facility, officially inaugurated by President Hakainde Hichilema on October 10, 2024, is envisioned to double the company’s wheat milling capacity from 25,000 to 50,000 tons annually, marking a critical milestone in Zambeef’s expansion efforts.
Zambeef operates the Zamflour brand, which provides high-quality wheat flour for various uses, ranging from commercial bakeries to household consumption.
The expansion of wheat production at Mpongwe is set to bolster Zamflour’s market share, positioning it as a major player in Zambia’s flour market.
Speaking during the commissioning, President Hichilema said the new wheat milling plant will help ensure the country meets its target of producing one million metric tonnes of wheat flour.
The project aims to enhance local food production, create employment opportunities, and spur economic growth, especially in rural areas.
This modern milling plant, designed to process 150 tons of wheat daily and 50,000 metric tonnes of wheat flour per year, is part of Zambeef’s broader strategy to enhance Zambia’s food production capabilities.
The plant’s infrastructure has been optimized to handle the region’s challenging weather and soil conditions, thanks to innovative geotechnical designs and effective drainage systems that ensure smooth operations even during the rainy season.
Beyond its economic impact, the facility will play a crucial role in reducing Zambia’s dependence on imported wheat products, thereby cutting production costs and stabilizing flour prices for local consumers. The investment also aligns with the government’s goal of making Zambia a food-secure nation and a regional breadbasket.
Absa, one of Zambeef’s financial partners, expressed pride in being part of this milestone project, highlighting its potential to stimulate economic growth and foster sustainable development within Zambia.
“We extend our congratulations to the management and staff of Zambeef for this remarkable accomplishment. At Absa, we are invested and proud to be part of Zambeef’s story,” Absa said.
The company is also a household name in Zambia’s animal feed sector, with its Novatek brand, a top-selling stock feed in Zambia.
Novatek produces a wide range of feeds for chickens, cattle, pigs, and fish. With two plants located in Lusaka and Mpongwe, Novatek produces around 7,000 tons of feed per month, ensuring high-quality feed for small-scale and commercial farmers alike.
The brand’s commitment to rigorous quality control has helped it achieve ISO 2200 certification, enhancing its reputation for reliability and excellence
According to the company, the expansion of the wheat mill offering will also contribute to Zambia’s agricultural value chain, particularly benefiting smallholder farmers who will gain access to a larger and more stable market for their wheat.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the WorldHERE.