By 
President Hakainde Hichilema has announced that Zambia will today export its first consignment of beef to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to diversify its export base.
The President said the initial beef exports will come from the chiefdoms of Mukobela and Mungaila in Southern Province.
Hichilema explained that although his own chiefdom is involved in cattle rearing, it would not participate in the first phase of exports, saying this was a deliberate decision to allow other chiefdoms to benefit first.
He made the remarks on Tuesday during a meeting with traditional leaders ahead of the opening of the Southern Province Investment and Trade Exposition in Livingstone.
“The beef is being processed at a modernised abattoir located in Kalomo,” President Hichilema said.
The Head of State also urged traditional leaders to discourage bush burning, particularly in cattle-rearing regions, warning that such practices harm both beef production and the environment.
He revealed that one of government’s ambitious targets was to export one million tonnes of beef annually through the establishment of Special Beef Economic Zones.
“This model alone can significantly boost the province’s economic rhythm, create sustainable jobs, and stimulate enterprise growth across value chains. As we move forward, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to inclusive growth,” he emphasized.
Hichilema said by working collaboratively—respecting the knowledge of traditional leaders, harnessing private sector ingenuity, and empowering communities—the country can unlock the full potential of Southern Province.
He noted that the province holds immense potential to transform the rural economy by tapping into strategic resources such as livestock, agriculture, energy, tourism, water, and human capital.
“Achieving this transformation requires a united approach, one that brings together government, traditional leaders, the private sector, local communities, and international and local investors as equal and committed partners,” the President said.
He also called on Zambians to turn out in large numbers to obtain National Registration Cards (NRCs) and register as voters ahead of the 2026 general elections.
On the upcoming elections, Hichilema cautioned against any attempts to incite unrest, stressing that democracy must be exercised within the confines of law and order.
Meanwhile, House of Chiefs Chairperson, Chief Choongo, commended President Hichilema for his continued message of peace and unity.
He urged the President to maintain that stance as the nation headed toward the 2026 polls, saying Zambians do not wish to return to an era when elections were marred by fear and violence.
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