Reported by: The Agency Media
Date: 4th April, 2025.
Chilanga, Lusaka Province, Zambia.
In a decisive step towards realizing Zambia’s billion-dollar beef export ambition, the Minister of Fisheries and Livestock, Hon. Peter Kapala, led an official tour at the site of the viral vaccine production facility in Chilanga, valued at an impressive 421 million Kwacha.
The visit, conducted on Friday, 4th April 2025, also included an inspection of the revitalization works at the Central Veterinary Research Institute, signaling the government’s unwavering commitment to modernizing the livestock sector.
This initiative forms part of a broader strategy driven by President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision to transform Zambia into a regional and global powerhouse in beef exports. The government has set an ambitious target to generate at least US$1 billion annually from beef exports, a goal that demands world-class infrastructure, robust animal health systems, and stringent compliance with international standards.
Key objectives of the tour included:
- Upgrading critical facilities such as abattoirs and laboratories to ensure they meet the stringent standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), thereby opening doors to lucrative export markets.
- Accelerating the implementation of Animal Disease-Free Compartments (ADFCs) across priority areas including Chikankata, Chipata, Chisamba, Mumbwa, and Namwala, with plans underway for further expansion to safeguard animal health and enhance export credibility.
During the visit, Hon. Kapala was welcomed by an array of senior government officials, including Mr. Evans Mutanuka, Director of Fisheries; Mr. Alikadio Maseko, Principal Research Scientist; and Acting Permanent Secretary Mr. Shadreck Mungalaba. Their presence underscored the collaborative approach the Ministry is fostering to galvanize stakeholders around this transformative agenda.
Speaking during the tour, Minister Kapala emphasized the critical role of the livestock sector in diversifying Zambia’s economy beyond mineral dependency. “Investing in animal health infrastructure not only safeguards our livestock but also strengthens Zambia’s position as a reliable beef supplier in regional and international markets,” he stated.
The New Dawn Government continues to prioritize partnerships and investments that will unlock the full potential of Zambia’s livestock industry. With strategic initiatives like these, the country is well on its way to carving out a significant share in the global beef market.
The Agency.