As a part of the UK government funded Private Enterprise Program Zambia (PEP-Z), Zambeef Products Plc and Shoprite Zambia have entered a partnership to support smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs by providing a connection between the local suppliers and consumers in the country.
According to the PEP-Z Program Manager, Bayo Akindeinde, the partnership between Shoprite and Zambeef Products will also improve the capacity of the country’s entrepreneurs to supply quality products to the markets.
“The aim now is to strengthen those market linkages further and support entrepreneurs so that they are able to supply the quality and consistency of products that is vital for these large processors and suppliers,” he said.
In statements released by representatives of Zambeef and Shoprite Zambia, both companies indicated support of the program which emphasizes the importance of purchasing from local suppliers.
“Shoprite has a [strong] policy of buying from local Zambian suppliers wherever possible,” said Charles Bota, the General Manager of Shoprite Zambia, “We are keen to grow this market further. It makes business sense from our perspective, and can only strengthen the economy.”
