Zambeef Products PLC has launched a revolutionary step forward for poultry farming in Zambia with the unveiling of its first-ever Environmentally Controlled House (ECH) — a state-of-the-art facility designed to transform how poultry is raised and how small and medium-sized farmers engage with commercial agriculture.
The grand launch took place at the Chisamba Huntley farm, where Zambeef CEO, Ms. Faith Mukutu, hosted a gathering of poultry outgrower farmers to mark the occasion. The cutting-edge facility, which can house up to 45,000 birds per cycle, is part of Zambeef’s broader $15 million investment in its poultry division — itself a piece of a $100 million strategic growth plan announced three years ago.
Transforming Livestock Farming Through Innovation
The ECH represents more than just infrastructure. It brings technology and sustainability together to promote animal welfare, biosecurity, and productivity. By maintaining precise temperature, ventilation, and humidity levels, the ECH reduces poultry stress, limits disease, and ensures optimal growth conditions.
This is especially critical for Zambia’s SME poultry farmers, who are often at the mercy of climate variability and inconsistent farming inputs.
“These innovations are not just about boosting production,” said Ms. Mukutu. “They are about creating inclusive growth, empowering local farmers, and advancing sustainable development across our value chain.”
Creating Opportunities for Local Farmers
Zambeef’s poultry model directly benefits thousands of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through:
- Technical support and specialized training
- Guaranteed market access
- Opportunities to scale through innovation
By integrating local farmers into this modernized poultry ecosystem, Zambeef ensures that economic benefits are shared across communities — from job creation to rural development.
The company already employs over 8,000 people directly, while supporting thousands more indirectly through partnerships with suppliers, farmers, and service providers.
Aligning with Africa’s Development Goals
Zambeef’s ECH investment aligns closely with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as:
- No Poverty
- Zero Hunger
- Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- Climate Action
The facility also reflects Zambeef’s commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) values, reinforcing its role as a leader in responsible agribusiness.
A Catalyst for Africa’s Poultry Future
Zambeef’s new facility is more than a first for Zambia — it sets a new benchmark for poultry production across the continent. It demonstrates how African agribusinesses can use innovation to build more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems.
As Ms. Mukutu put it, “This is about building a future where our farmers thrive, our communities prosper, and our food systems grow stronger — together.”
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