The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has officially commissioned Zambia’s inaugural cassava processing facility in Chitambo District, set to benefit over 6,200 farmers in the area.
IDC CEO Cornwell Muleya announced that the K86.5 million project was developed with support from the African Development Bank’s Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP). The facility, which is 70% owned by IDC and 30% by the Chitambo District Cooperative Union, has the capacity to process up to 120 metric tonnes of cassava daily into products such as cassava meal, starch, and animal feed. Currently employing 29 staff, the project is expected to create a total of 86 direct and up to 4,000 indirect jobs.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to commercialize cassava production, targeting industries like baking, textiles, and breweries. All products have been certified by the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS). Muleya highlighted the initiative’s role in promoting inclusive economic development in line with Zambia’s industrialization goals.
“At IDC, we believe this project will not only stimulate economic activity but also foster development in this central region,” he stated.
Agriculture Minister Hon. Reuben Mtolo Phiri, the Guest of Honour, emphasized that the facility aligns with the Government’s Eighth National Development Plan (2022–2026) and the newly launched Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), which prioritizes value addition in agriculture. Central Province Minister Hon. Mwabashike Nkulukusa noted that the region’s extensive cassava cultivation had been underutilized due to a lack of processing infrastructure, and this new facility would enhance opportunities for farmers.
African Development Bank Country Manager Mr. Raubil Durowoju underscored the importance of agro-industrialization, stating that the facility will connect farmers to markets and enable the transformation of raw cassava into competitive products for local and international consumption. His Royal Highness Chief Chitambo also recognized the potential benefits for local farmers, urging increased cassava cultivation to meet anticipated market demand.
