By MWIINGA MUKUWA
CHISHINGA Breeding Centre in Kawambwa district of Luapula Province has reached a significant milestone with a thriving herd of 1,119 cattle, including 1,000 heifers already received and an additional 900 heifers expected soon.
In a statement issued by Emmanuel Maseko who is Principal Public Relations Officer for Luapula Province, Luapula Province Assistant Commissioner Martin Shamungala under the Zambia Correctional Service, revealed that the Chishinga Breeding Centre has emerged as a model of excellence, innovation, and sustainability.
“Spanning an impressive 33,000 hectares, the ranch is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, professional management, and community-driven development,” Mr Shamungala said.
Mr Shamungala said this achievement marks a major step forward in Zambia’s ambitious goal to achieve a 7 million live animal population by 2027, a target set to transform the country’s livestock sector and enhance national food security.
“This year, the centre has already received 50 high-quality bulls and 1,000 heifers, with another 900 heifers expected to arrive shortly. The ranch has also secured 1,000 hectares of new land, with plans to expand by a further 400 hectares,” he said.
Mr Shamungala said these strategic investments are not only enhancing the ranch’s capacity but also creating jobs and economic opportunities for local communities.
He stressed that to address operational challenges, the ranch is developing critical infrastructure, including roads, and introducing horses for patrols in areas inaccessible by vehicles.
Mr Shamungala said these initiatives are ensuring that the benefits of the project extend beyond the ranch, improving access and connectivity for surrounding communities.
He indicated that the Chishinga breeding centre which is being managed by skilled professionals, setting new standards in livestock and agricultural practices.
“The centre is serving as a training hub for local farmers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to improve their own farming activities and increase productivity,” Mr Shamungala.
Meanwhile, DAVIES CHUTU reports that Government through the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, has earmarked K11.5 million for 2025 to distribute 630 cattle, 1,500 goats, 5,000 village chickens, and 1,000 rabbits across the country.
In a ministerial statement, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Peter Kapala said government has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting livestock production by expanding the national Stocking and Restocking Programme. The initiative aims to empower vulnerable households with livestock to enhance food security and economic stability.
The stocking and restocking programme has also distributed pasture seeds to 80,000 households, resulting in the development of over 21,000 hectares of grazing land.
“Under the 2025 plan, provinces will receive varied distributions, with Central Province receiving 185 cattle, 104 goats, and 800 chickens, while Western Province will receive 146 cattle, 104 goats, and 1,000 chickens,” Mr Kapala said.
The Enhanced Smallholder Livestock Investment Programme (E-SLIP) will supplement government efforts by adding 303 cattle, 1,500 goats, and 5,000 chickens.
Mr Kapala urged community leaders and parliamentarians to educate their constituencies on the importance of livestock multiplication.
“This programme is not about hand-outs but sustainable economic empowerment,” he emphasized.
With a target of reaching 7.4 million livestock by 2027, Zambia’s Stocking and Restocking Programme is a cornerstone of rural economic development, fostering self-reliance among smallholder farmers. As implementation continues, the government calls for unity and adherence to guidelines to ensure lasting benefits. –NAIS
