Introduction:

Northern Province offers a remarkable opportunity for livestock and fish farming with its vast, fertile landscapes and ideal climate conditions. As a key region in Zambia’s agricultural sector, it promises growth and innovation in beef and dairy production. By harnessing local resources and investing in new processing facilities, Northern Province is poised to revolutionize its cattle industry and drive economic development. Discover how you can be part of this transformative journey in order to unlock the potential that lies in the Northern regions of Zambia.

Cattle Farming

 

Northern Province, specifically in Mbala and Mungwi Districts, hosts 170,000 beef cattle, comprising 10% of Zambia’s total cattle population. Due to this concentration, the province relies on imports from other regions to meet local demand, resulting in higher prices for beef and dairy products. However, the region’s favorable climate, ample water sources, and natural pastureland present significant potential for ranching and dairy farming. The province’s natural vegetation can sustain approximately 4 hectares per head of cattle, making it ideal for both free-range and supplemented grazing. Moreover, cattle not only provide meat and dairy but also valuable by-products such as hides, hooves, and horns.

Economic Impact and Opportunities involved with Cattle:

Beef and dairy production play a crucial role in both local consumption and export markets, contributing significantly to the province’s economy. Additionally, organic manure from cattle offers a sustainable alternative to expensive chemical fertilizers, benefiting crop production and soil health in the region.

ZAMBEEF, the sole competitor in the cattle byproducts sector, currently sources its raw materials from other provinces and even abroad. Thus, establishing a tannery and other processing industries within the province would alleviate the pressure on ZAMBEEF and reduce reliance on external sources.

Sheep and Goats

Sheep and goat farming is deeply rooted in Africa’s rural traditions, and Northern Province is no exception. The local breeds are well-adapted to the environment, thriving in the region’s conditions.

These animals are highly valuable economically due to their efficient breeding cycles, with ewes often producing twins or triplets and giving birth up to three times a year. This rapid reproduction ensures strong returns on investment. Additionally, sheep and goats are resistant to many diseases and thrive under extensive management systems. They are not only a staple in local diets but also play a role in cultural ceremonies.

Rising Opportunities in Sheep and Goat Farming:

Recent agreements with Saudi Arabia and growing demand from DR Congo highlight the expanding market for goat and sheep products. The Zambian government is actively encouraging local production to meet these demands and diversify meat protein sources.

For local entrepreneurs, sheep and goat farming presents a lucrative opportunity. Establishing abattoirs and processing plants in each district could capitalize on this growing demand and ensure long-term sustainability. While egg production and small-scale chicken farming are present, there is room for growth to better meet regional needs.

Fish Production

The Province boasts numerous water bodies such as rivers, lakes and swamps which provide the basis for extensive freshwater.

However, demand for domestic fish for consumption still outstrips production. The sector, because of its mostly rural setting, continues to contribute significantly to rural development in terms of employment, income generation and poverty reduction. Commercial fishing is being done on Lake Tanganyika and Lake Bangweulu.

Lake Bangweulu is exploited more as a fish source than as a tourist attraction. The fisheries of Lake Bangweulu and Tanganyika are among the largest in Zambia. This has led to some of the highest population densities around the lakes where commercial fisher men have settled.

Fishing is also done by small-scale fishermen who sell their small catches to local traders. Industrial fishing activities are limited to Lake Tanganyika and are associated with production of Kapenta.

All the same, the fishing industry is not economically developed. Inadequate controls and marketing facilities threaten both sustainability and profitability of the industry as a whole.

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES: 

1. • Egg Production: Address the supply gap by investing in local egg production facilities to meet regional demand.
   • Chicken Farming: Expand small-scale chicken farming operations to increase local production and meet growing demand.

These opportunities highlight potential areas for investment that could drive economic growth, improve local food security, and enhance the overall sustainability of the agricultural and fisheries sectors in the Northern Province.