In a remarkable endeavor to promote agricultural diversity and uplift local farmers, Zambian Breweries Plc has embarked on an exciting journey to boost cassava farming in the Luapula Province. This collaborative effort aims to overcome the challenges faced by cassava cultivators in Zambia, including limited knowledge of best farming practices, inadequate infrastructure for processing and marketing, limited access to financial services, and difficulties in integrating with the market.
By addressing these barriers head-on, Zambian Breweries is actively supporting small-scale farmers and unlocking the untapped potential of cassava farming, leading to transformative changes in the lives of individuals and communities alike.
Kawambwa District Commissioner, Godfrey Chilambwe, commended the farmers for their courage in venturing into cassava production and recognized their pivotal role as the foundation of the supply chain. He also expressed admiration for Zambian Breweries’ contributions to this cause, highlighting their cassava outgrower scheme, which has empowered over 6,000 farmers. Through this initiative, the brewer promotes productivity and sustainability by sourcing cassava for brewing their popular beverages such as Eagle Lager and Mosi Light.
Through collaborative efforts between the breweries and local farmers, Zambian Breweries is not only fostering crop portfolio diversification but also driving sustainable economic growth in Zambia.
Michelle Kilpin, Zambian Breweries Country Director, emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships with farmers and recognized their integral role in maintaining the quality standards of the company’s beers. She underscored the company’s commitment to various aspects, including climate change, value addition, local sourcing, job creation, and contributing to national tax revenue. By promoting self-sufficiency and fostering industrialization, Zambian Breweries is actively working towards a future of prosperity.
“We have had the privilege of working with farmers from across the country through our out-grower schemes and have forged strong partnerships over the years. They have become an indispensable part of our supply chain and have made significant contributions to upholding the quality standards of our beers. After all, without quality produce, there can be no quality finished product,” stated Zambian Breweries Country Director, Michelle Kilpin.
Kilpin expressed eagerness to witness an increasing number of small-scale farmers engage in cassava farming, enabling them to reap the rewards for themselves and their families. She extended her gratitude for their unwavering dedication and hard work, emphasizing that together, they can achieve a future filled with more cheers—cheers to yet another bountiful harvest season, to shared value, sustainable farming practices, and stronger market linkages.
Traditionally, Zambia’s farming landscape has heavily relied on maize production, leaving climate-resilient crops like cassava trailing behind. However, through the collaborative partnership with Zambian Breweries, cassava farmers are emerging as crucial players in the realization of a future marked by agricultural diversity and sustainable economic growth. This collaboration signifies a transformative shift, and with continued support and innovation, Zambia’s agricultural sector holds the promise of a flourishing and resilient future.
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