Zambeef Products scoops green award

The award recognises the company’s consistency in ensuring that projects or developments take into account environmental factors. 

Any assessment has to be made in accordance with the Environmental Management Act, covering environmental protection, pollution control, challenges arising from climate change as well as pollution from persistent organic pollutants and electronic waste.

Since its incorporation as a small-scale start-up business in 1994, Zambeef has become one of Zambia’s largest agri-businesses with annual revenues of approximately $275 million, and currently employs more than 5,800 staff. 

‘Sustainable business model’​ 

“Zambeef follows a sustainable business model whereby in pursuit of economic gain, environmental, ecological and social considerations are taken into account,”​ said Zambeef head of environment, health and safety Jones Kayawe. 

The company has introduced a range of environmentally friendly policies. Earlier this year the company introduced a ‘windrow cropping’ system that allows for the production of organic fertiliser from organic waste. 

It also introduced treatment ponds protecting the environment by breaking down effluent for at least three months before discharge. 

And the centre of its Chiawa farm has been left undeveloped to allow an animal passage for game and to preserve the natural flora in the area. 

‘Feed the nation’​ 

“We want to feed the nation in an environmentally sustainable way​,” said joint chief executive officer Francis Grogan. 

“As an agribusiness our production and yields are directly affected by our environment and it is only sound business to ensure it is not damaged.”​ ​

Zambeef describes itself as one of the largest chicken, beef and pork suppliers in Zambia. It operates seven beef abattoirs and three feedlots located throughout Zambia, with an annual capacity to slaughter 100,000 cattle a year and to feed 24,000 grain fed cattle. It currently claims to process 6.2m chickens a year.