Zambia National Service (ZNS) has forged a strategic partnership with a Chinese Company, Golden Flow Investments Limited, for the development of a 1,000-hectare fish farming project at ZNS Chanyanya Farm in Kafue.
The partnership which is aimed at boosting ZNS’ contribution to national aquaculture productivity and strengthening national food security has been sealed through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Speaking at the signing ceremony at ZNS Headquarters, the ZNS Commander Lieutenant General Engineer Maliti Solochi II has indicated that the partnership is part of the Service’s broader drive to support Government’s agenda of economic diversification through strategic investment in agriculture and aquaculture.
“This initiative has immense potential to contribute significantly to Zambia’s aquaculture sector and elevate our institution’s contribution to the stimulation of our nation’s economic growth,” the ZNS Commander said.
Lt Gen Solochi has explained that Phase One of the project is expected to commence production after July 2026, targeting an estimated annual output of about 24,000 tonnes of tilapia, once fully operational.
“The project will include the construction and expansion of fishponds, water management systems, processing plants, feed production facilities, cold storage infrastructure, office facilities and other essential support amenities required for effective operations,” he added.
The Commander has reaffirmed ZNS’ commitment to ensuring that its resources are effectively utilized in support of national development programmes, noting that initiatives of this nature are key to enhancing productivity and value addition within the agricultural sector.
Meanwhile, Golden Flow Investments Limited Chairman, Mr Huang Tieming, has expressed optimism about the successful performance of the partnership, noting that the fish farming project has the potential to grow into a large-scale programme capable of significantly boosting national production levels.
The Chairman has affirmed that his company is committed to putting in maximum effort and engaging highly qualified experts to ensure success of the joint initiative.
Mr Tieming has also highlighted plans for broader cooperation beyond the fish project, disclosing a commitment to developing a strong value chain that will culminate into long-term achievement of tangible results, such as creation sustainable employment opportunities.
The project promises to employ modern technology and tested technical expertise in the actualisation of this landmark partnership.
Credit: Zambia National Service