Zambia Commissions $30m Tobacco Processing Plant
The Government has commissioned the new $30 million Great Leaf Tobacco Processing plant, a milestone investment expected to create more than 700 direct jobs and accelerate Zambia’s agricultural modernisation agenda.
Commissioned on behalf of President Hakainde Hichilema by Agriculture Minister Hon. Reuben Mtolo Phiri, the state-of-the-art facility represents growing investor confidence in Zambia’s economic stability and policy direction.
President Hichilema described the project as evidence that Zambia is becoming a preferred destination for productive investment. “This investment illustrates that Zambia is now a preferred destination for productive investments,” he said, noting that the country must shift from exporting raw commodities to exporting value-added products.
He emphasised that agricultural transformation from subsistence to commercial farming will create decent jobs, boost incomes and enhance the quality of life for ordinary Zambians.
The President added that Great Leaf’s investment would “restore hope and dignity” for families in Kabwe and urged communities to protect the facility to ensure sustained economic benefits.
The plant supports Zambia’s push for crop diversification and value addition, particularly in the tobacco sector, which remains a vital cash crop for farmers in Eastern, Central and Western provinces. By processing tobacco and its byproducts locally, more value will be retained within the country, increasing earnings for farmers and generating employment.
Great Leaf has launched an out-grower scheme involving over 2,500 small-scale farmers, offering inputs, technical support and guaranteed markets. The President called on the company to maintain fairness and transparency, ensuring farmers receive equitable compensation.
Government efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector continue through improved regulations, better access to finance and enhanced infrastructure. Recent reforms include the Plant Health Act No. 1 of 2025 and the establishment of Plant Quarantine and Phytosanitary Services (PQPS). Zambia has also signed a bilateral protocol with China to expand export opportunities, particularly for macadamia nuts.
The country is experiencing notable growth in agricultural output. Maize seed exports have doubled from 27,000 metric tonnes in 2021 to over 53,000 metric tonnes in 2024, paving the way for entry into European markets. More than 30 climate-smart seed varieties have also been released to strengthen food security.
Kabwe has further attracted a $30 million Bayer Seed Processing plant, introducing advanced technologies and supporting local value addition while creating jobs.
President Hichilema also confirmed that Zambia recently recorded its highest-ever maize harvest, approximately 4 million metric tonnes.
He encouraged the private sector to pursue emerging opportunities locally and abroad, including markets such as Israel, to ensure long-term growth and prosperity for the nation.
