Zambian Breweries’ Plant Expansion Garners Government Applause for Economic Growth
President Hakainde Hichilema celebrated the upgraded and expanded state-of-the-art production facility of Zambian Breweries Plc in Lusaka. The US$80 million investment underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving manufacturing sector and achieving a robust economy.
President Hichilema commended the private sector’s role in infrastructure and capacity building, emphasizing that the New Dawn Government is steadfast in prioritizing economic growth.
He stated, “Growth can only come through investments such as these. When we grow the economy and investment, we will be able to create the much-needed jobs, business opportunities for the people of Zambia.”
The Zambian government acknowledged the indispensable role of partners, investors, and businesses like Zambian Breweries in the nation’s economic expansion.
The brewery, a longstanding contributor to Zambia’s economic landscape, has actively participated in national initiatives such as the Lusaka Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ) program.
Honourable Chipoka Mulenga, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, lauded Zambian Breweries for its instrumental role in contributing to the economic fabric of Zambia.
He emphasized the importance of value addition in increasing productivity and noted that the brewery’s investment would enable flexibility in exporting locally produced goods.
2024 has been designated by the Zambian Government as ‘the year for economic expansion.’ The aim is to cultivate partnerships that bring fairly priced capital, lower the cost of doing business, introduce cutting-edge technology, and enhance local skills and productivity.
Michelle Kilpin, Zambian Breweries Country Director, highlighted the company’s commitment to unlocking local opportunities, reducing import reliance, and broadening export options.
She stated, “Zambian Breweries aims not only to expand production but also to create jobs, support agricultural out-grower schemes, provide procurement opportunities for local suppliers, and contribute additional tax revenue to the Zambian Government.”
Ongoing dialogue between the public and private sector, facilitated by platforms such as the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce Trade and Industry, the Public Private Dialogue Forum, the Zambia Association of Manufacturers, and other stakeholders, played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of the project.
In collaboration with its parent company AB InBev, Zambian Breweries aligns with the government’s vision for manufacturing to contribute 30% to GDP by 2030. The company remains committed to responsible corporate citizenship, actively supporting initiatives such as Smart Agriculture, Circular Packaging, Water Stewardship, and community initiatives around Smart drinking, reflecting its dedication to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
