Small-Scale Farmers See Growth Opportunities in Zambia, Says Zambeef Executive
During the 2025 pre-budget submission event in Lusaka, organised by the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), Zambeef Products PLC’s Executive for Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Mr Ezekiel Sekele, highlighted significant growth opportunities for small-scale farmers in Zambia.
The event was attended by the Honourable Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane.
Mr Sekele noted that Zambeef supports over 100,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), primarily supplying grain and beef cattle.
He emphasised that Zambeef’s success directly benefits these SMEs, advocating for a “win-win situation” for all stakeholders.
Despite the potential for growth in the livestock and grain sectors, Mr Sekele pointed out challenges such as the high cost of doing business and prevalent livestock diseases, including Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), and Swine Fever.
Zambeef supports government efforts to improve animal health through mandatory testing and vaccination.
Mr Sekele commended the government’s increasing investment in the livestock sector but urged further funding for the Department of Veterinary Services.
He also called for the harmonisation of council fees and consolidation under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to prevent “double taxation” and better utilise the Community Development Fund (CDF).
He expressed concern over the detrimental impact of the VAT Exempt status on agricultural products and advocated for policy interventions to enhance affordability, nutrition, and food security.
Mr Sekele also reported on Zambeef’s new cheese manufacturing plant and wheat flour mill, calling for fair tax policies to promote local investment and reduce imports of products like yoghurt.
Mr Sekele further urged the government to curb the importation of Mechanically Deboned Meat (MDM), which hampers job creation and poultry sector growth.
He called for stricter import controls and increased duties to boost local competitiveness.
