Zambian Breweries’ Cassava Programme Drives Economic Growth and Sustainability in Luapula Province

The Zambian Breweries Cassava Programme has significantly impacted local farmers in Luapula Province, promoting economic growth and agricultural sustainability by incorporating cassava into flagship products such as Mosi Light and Eagle Lager.

At a recent event celebrating Cassava Farmers’ Day in Chipili District, Deputy Permanent Secretary (DPS) Prudence Mwansa Chinama praised the dedication and hard work of local cassava farmers. She highlighted cassava’s critical role in the region’s agricultural landscape, especially in light of recent droughts affecting crop production nationwide.

“Luapula Province has long been recognised as a significant contributor to Zambia’s agricultural sector, and cassava remains one of our primary crops,” said DPS Chinama. “The cassava procured by Zambian Breweries is a key ingredient in the production of Eagle Lager and Mosi Light beers, a notable achievement as these locally developed and brewed beers have ingredients sourced right here in Luapula Province.”

Zambian Breweries’ cassava programme has created numerous opportunities for local farmers, ensuring their integration into the value chain. This integration provides a stable market for their produce, encouraging crop diversification and employment. CEO Thais Cavinatto underscored the company’s dedication to local sourcing and value addition. 

“Zambian Breweries has had the privilege of working with farmers from across the country through our out-grower schemes, nurturing strong partnerships over the years,” she said. “By empowering our cassava farmers, we not only ensure a reliable supply of raw materials but also promote value addition and local sourcing, which are fundamental to who we are as Zambian Breweries.”

Smallholder farmers in Luapula Province have historically faced numerous challenges, including unpredictable weather patterns, crop diseases, and limited access to markets and improved farming techniques. 

However, private sector companies like Zambian Breweries are crucial in providing sustainable solutions. Crisanty Chama, Chief Research Officer for Region 3 at the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI), praised the collaborative efforts between ZB, Musika, and various stakeholders in addressing these challenges. 

“Through partnerships with Zambian Breweries, Musika, and other stakeholders, we have introduced disease-resistant cassava varieties and provided farmers with training and resources to enhance their productivity and profitability,” Mr Chama stated.

The cassava out-grower schemes and community-based programmes initiated by ZB have created substantial opportunities for crop diversification and economic growth in Luapula Province. In the 2024 season, the brewery will purchase cassava at K5 per kilogram or K5,000 per tonne, creating a steady income source for farmers. 

This is further strengthened by innovative technologies like BanQu’s blockchain digital platform, which enables seamless transactions and allows smallholder farmers to receive their payments in minutes.

Beyond these efforts, Zambian Breweries supports initiatives such as Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) groups to help cooperatives thrive. These initiatives demonstrate the company’s commitment to the broader growth of farmers and communities by providing access to financial resources and fostering cooperative development. This holistic approach reflects Zambian Breweries’ dedication to not only cassava cultivation but also the overall advancement of farmers and the communities in which they live.

At the Cassava Farmers’ Day event, ZB honoured some of its hardworking smallholder farmers with mobile phones and solar kits to enhance their access to technical agronomic information and financial services. Such initiatives are vital in promoting sustainable farming practices and boosting productivity. 

“As Zambian Breweries, we understand that our success is intertwined with the prosperity of our communities. When you thrive, we thrive,” added Cavinatto. “We are committed to building strong communities focused on sustainability and socio-economic development.”

The ZB Cassava Programme’s success in Luapula Province serves as a model for sustainable agriculture and local economic development. As more farmers embrace improved farming methods and value addition, the future looks promising for cassava farming in Zambia. 

DPS Chinama concluded, “To Zambian Breweries, I say well done and please continue to support our cassava, small-scale farmers. We celebrate the milestones so far but acknowledge that this is just the start. It will require all our continued and concerted efforts to realise the full potential of cassava farming in Luapula Province.”