Poultry Industry urgently needs investment
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (September 13, 2024) — The 2024 Zambia International Poultry Expo (ZIPEX) opened today with industry leaders urging increased investment in technology, infrastructure, and skill development to meet growing local and regional demands and ensure the sector’s sustainability.
Guest of Honor Bonwell Mupeyo, Director of Livestock at the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, stressed the poultry industry’s vital role in Zambia’s food security and job creation but warned that the sector faces significant challenges.
“The poultry industry is key to Zambia’s food security and employment,” Mupeyo stated.
“However, to sustain this momentum, we need serious investment in technology, infrastructure, and workforce skills.”
As the demand for poultry products grows, the industry struggles with high costs and regulatory barriers.
Mupeyo emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the sector through improved policies and market access, but called for private sector investment to drive innovation and growth.
“The government is committed, but private investment is essential to unlock the industry’s full potential,” he added.
Mathews Ngosa, Trustee of the Poultry Association of Zambia (PAZ), addressed the industry’s resilience despite ongoing challenges.
He highlighted issues such as rising input costs, exchange rate fluctuations, and the flood of imported poultry products impacting local businesses.
“The sector has shown resilience, but challenges remain,” Ngosa noted.
“Power outages, high finance costs, and slow service from regulatory bodies continue to obstruct growth.”
Ngosa called for collaboration to address these challenges, aligning with the Expo’s theme, “Fostering Sustainable Poultry Practices for Food Security.”
He encouraged participants to use the event as a platform for forming partnerships and exploring new solutions.
“The Expo provides a vital opportunity to collaborate and find lasting solutions,” Ngosa said. “We must work together to secure the future of the industry.”
The Expo, organized by DSG Media and PAZ, runs through September 14, offering participants a platform to showcase innovations, discuss challenges, and explore investment opportunities. It also serves as a prelude to PAZ’s Annual General Meeting on September 27, 2024.
With the poultry sector playing a key role in Zambia’s economy, industry leaders agree that substantial investments are critical to overcome challenges and maintain its contribution to the nation’s food security and economic growth.
Daimone Siulupwa, Managing Director of Zambia International Poultry Expo Limited, stated that the 2024 Zambia International Poultry Expo is designed to highlight the country’s poultry sector.
Siulupwa encouraged the public to attend and see the offerings of key players in the poultry industry.
He also urged poultry farmers to consider selling live chickens rather than packaged ones. Siulupwa explained that selling live chickens could help mitigate losses due to potential power shortages affecting refrigeration.
Despite the current energy challenges, Siulupwa expressed optimism that the government will address the issues affecting poultry farmers. He emphasized the need for farmers to adopt innovative practices, such as using solar energy, to cope with the ongoing power deficit.