Reported by: The Agency Media
Date: 21st Apri, 2025.
Namwala, Southern Province, Zambia.
Southern Province Permanent Secretary Dr. Namani Monze has embarked on a strategic campaign to galvanize traditional leadership and rural livestock farmers in Namwala District, positioning them at the forefront of Zambia’s beef export ambitions through cooperative-led development.
In a series of consultative meetings with Chiefs Mukobela, Mungaila, Muchila, and Nalubamba, Dr. Monze underscored the government’s renewed focus on building sustainable, market-oriented livestock economies in rural communities. The initiative—centered on the creation of Beef Economic Export Zones (BEEZ)—seeks to establish disease-free compartments that align with international standards, enabling small-scale farmers to tap into global beef markets.
“Our approach is rooted in the power of collective action,” said Dr. Monze. “By organizing farmers into functional cooperatives, we are unlocking access to resources, technical support, and markets—while ensuring animal health and productivity are significantly improved.”
Under this initiative, livestock cooperatives will be systematically categorized to enhance specialization and efficiency. Cooperatives will focus on one of three core areas:
- Feedlot development
- Milking centers
- Breeding units
This structured model is designed to streamline extension services, strengthen disease control mechanisms, and foster scalable production systems.
To support the transition, qualifying cooperatives will benefit from community matching grants valued at K1.4 million, structured as 60% government-funded grants, 20% cooperative-owned physical assets, and 20% cooperative cash contributions. This co-financing model is aimed at accelerating the adoption of modern livestock practices while mitigating financial barriers for rural producers.
Dr. Monze highlighted key intervention areas including:
- Strengthening cooperative formation and leadership capacity
- Implementing rotational grazing systems and paddock management
- Enhancing veterinary services and disease surveillance
- Expanding infrastructure such as boreholes, animal handling facilities, and fodder banks
- Facilitating training, technology access, and market linkages
Traditional leaders have welcomed the New Dawn Government’s initiative, pledging their full support and commitment to mobilize communities for cooperative formation and disease control.
“This vision aligns with what we have long advocated,” said one chief. “We are ready to lead by example and transform Namwala into a center of excellence in livestock production.”
Namwala District—long renowned for its rich cattle heritage—is poised to become a pilot region for the BEEZ framework. The Southern Province Administration, in collaboration with the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, will provide ongoing technical support and oversight to ensure successful implementation.
Dr. Monze was joined by Namwala District Commissioner Mr. Ephraim Shandavu, Council Chairperson Mr. Abel Moonga, Council Secretary Mr. Fred Munongo, and other senior government officials, reinforcing a unified front in delivering this transformative rural development agenda.
This comprehensive outreach effort marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s livestock development strategy—empowering rural communities through cooperative governance, modern farming systems, and strategic partnerships with traditional leadership.
The Agency.