The pronouncement by President Hakainde Hichilema for Zambia
to grow its beef exports to a value of US$1 billion is a welcome economic
ambition, as increased beef exports could generate much-needed foreign
exchange, strengthen national income, improve Zambia’s balance of payments and
create opportunities for farmers, processors, transporters, retailers and other
actors across the beef supply chain.
However, achieving this ambition requires more than
increasing cattle production from approximately 4.9 million to more than 7
million. The beef industry is a complex supply chain involving farmers,
transporters, abattoirs, processors, distributors, retailers and local and
foreign consumers. Its success depends on effective coordination, effective
regulation, appropriate infrastructure and modern inventory and supply chain
management.
One important starting point is ensuring that farmers
understand the legal framework governing the beef industry. Government should
consider translating the Animal and Traceability Act No. 2 of 2024 into
Zambia’s major local languages and producing simplified versions that farmers
can easily understand. Compliance becomes much easier when those operating
within the value chain understand their legal responsibilities, particularly
regarding animal identification, traceability, movement, food safety and
disease control.
There is also a need to promote business ethics throughout
the value chain. A farmer, trader, processor or retailer who knowingly
introduces unsafe or diseased meat into the supply chain can create serious
reputational and financial consequences. Such failures can result in product
recalls and reverse logistics, which are costly and disruptive to businesses.
It is recommended that government and financial institutions
gradually facilitate access to finance for cold-storage facilities, reliable
transportation, backup power, digital inventory systems and other essential
logistics. In the short term, simple digital tools and staff training can
improve stock accuracy and reduce stockouts. In the medium term, investment
should focus on forecasting systems, semi-automated inventory technologies and
stronger cold-chain infrastructure. In the long term, Zambia will require additional
supportive policies, traceability systems and incentives for technology
adoption.
The US$1 billion target is therefore achievable. The country
needs to build a beef value chain that is not only productive but also
efficient, traceable, and ethical, while learning best practices from countries
like Brazil, New Zealand, and others.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Innocent
Siachitoba is an Operations, Projects and Supply Chain Management Expert