Zambeef Products PLC has officially commissioned a state-of-the-art Environmentally Controlled House (ECH) at its Huntley Farm in Chisamba, marking a significant stride in the company’s poultry division expansion. Each new unit is engineered to house up to 45,000 birds per production cycle, substantially boosting capacity and efficiency.

Strategic Investment Fuels Growth

This latest infrastructure development is a cornerstone of Zambeef’s broader poultry division upgrade, which has so far seen an investment of US15million(K396million). This allocation is part of the ambitiousUS100 million (K2.64 billion) investment package the company unveiled in 2021, underscoring its commitment to long-term growth and modernization.

The ECH facility is poised to deliver multiple benefits, including enhanced poultry health, increased output, and a reduced environmental footprint compared to traditional rearing methods.

Empowering Outgrowers and Fostering Sustainability

Zambeef CEO Faith Mukutu led the launch event, engaging directly with small and medium-scale poultry outgrower farmers present at the site. The interaction served to highlight how integrating advanced technology, sustainable practices, and modern infrastructure can significantly influence productivity and contribute to enduring business stability.

Mukutu emphasized that this new operational model is expected to not only optimize production but also generate substantial social benefits for poultry farmers and their communities. The facility is designed to create increased opportunities for MSME outgrowers by providing them with access to vital technical training, consistent market channels, and a structured value chain.

Alignment with ESG and Global Development Goals

This progressive model seamlessly integrates with Zambeef’s comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. It also directly supports several global development targets, including zero hunger, climate action, decent work, and innovation in industry and infrastructure, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.

The company further asserts that the poultry division upgrade aligns with its core objective of poverty reduction through inclusive economic participation. Zambeef currently employs over 8,000 individuals directly and indirectly supports thousands more through its extensive network of small-scale suppliers and service providers.

Through its revitalized poultry unit, Zambeef aims to cultivate a sustainable ecosystem that ensures long-term livelihoods for farmers and their families. CEO Mukutu reiterated that poultry farmers are considered essential partners in this endeavor, emphasizing that capacity-building initiatives will remain a paramount priority.

Zambeef acknowledges the crucial support from government bodies, trade associations, regulators, and other private sector entities in the ongoing development of its robust poultry supply chain.