Reported by: Samuel Ernest.
Date: 23rd February, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock (MFL) has reaffirmed its commitment to increasing Zambia’s national cattle population to seven million by 2027, in alignment with the Presidential vision for economic growth and food security.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with Zambia National Service (ZNS) Commander, Lt. General Eng. Maliti Solochi, Minister of Fisheries and Livestock, Hon. Eng. Peter Kapala, MP, underscored the critical role of strategic partnerships in achieving this ambitious target. He announced that ZNS would take the lead in managing six key national breeding centers to bolster livestock production.
“With strong public confidence, my ministry is entrusting ZNS with the management of six critical breeding centers—Mbesuma (Muchinga), Chipompo (Northern), Kalungwishi (Northern), Mutaba (Copperbelt), Jiwundu (Northwestern), and Kanchindu (Southern). This initiative is not only aimed at increasing cattle numbers but also at generating employment and transforming these centers into hubs of sustainable livestock development,” Minister Kapala stated.
The partnership is expected to be a transformative force in Zambia’s livestock sector, enhancing breeding efficiency, increasing beef exports, strengthening national food security, and contributing significantly to economic growth.
Lt. Gen. Solochi welcomed the collaboration, assuring the Minister of ZNS’s full commitment to the initiative. “Honorable Minister, we appreciate your trust in ZNS.
We will ensure the success of this program, as it aligns with the broader Presidential priorities. Our team is ready to commence assessments this week, while the legal framework for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is being finalized.”
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Permanent Secretary, Eng. Himba Cheelo, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, emphasizing that it would promote modern livestock management practices, create jobs, and improve national food security.
To ensure effective implementation, a joint expert team from MFL and ZNS has been dispatched to assess the breeding centers and aquaculture parks, marking the first step towards a more resilient and prosperous livestock sector in Zambia.
The Agency.
