CHINSALI , MUCHINGA – In a significant move to boost national food security and economic growth, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and the Zambia National Service (ZNS) have formalized a landmark partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The agreement aims to leverage the combined strengths of both institutions to revitalizing the historically challenged Mbesuma Livestock Breeding Centre in Chinsali District.
The signing ceremony underscored a unified government approach, with officials from both ministries emphasizing collaboration, mutual accountability, and a shared vision for a productive and food-secure Zambia.
The MOU marks a turning point for Mbesuma Ranch, which has faced years of operational hurdles including inadequate infrastructure, low productivity, poor data management, and weak market linkages. These challenges have limited its contribution to the national livestock sector.
Under this new partnership, a structured seven-point plan will be implemented to breathe new life into Mbesuma Breeding Center.
1. Joint Breeding Programmes: To enhance the quality and quantity of livestock.
2. Regular Monitoring: Systematic headcounts and quarterly reviews to track progress.
3. Infrastructure Support: Rehabilitation of water points, grazing fields, fencing, and handling facilities.
4. Data Transparency: Improved oversight and data-driven decision-making.
5. Market Linkages: Facilitating sales of livestock to smallholder farmers and developing potential for beef exports.
6. Strategic Coordination: A joint committee to ensure activities align with national goals.
7. Capacity Building: Sharing of technical information and expertise to avoid duplication of efforts.
The goal of the livestock initiative is to expand the current herd, which already stands at over 1,000 cattle between ZNS and the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, to 10,000 beef cattle.
This collaboration is positioned as a key driver in achieving government’s target of a 7.4 million national cattle herd by 2027.
