Zambia’s industrial revival gained momentum today as Information and Media Principal Public Relations Officer Mr. Shamwinda Tembo toured Mulungushi Textiles in Kabwe, Central Province. The visit highlighted a major milestone in the country’s textile sector, as the factory officially commenced printing chitenge material following a 140 million dollar investment. This development reflects a deliberate effort by the government and private sector to rebuild local manufacturing capacity and reduce reliance on imports. The reopening of Mulungushi Textiles stands as a symbol of economic renewal, with direct benefits for employment, trade, and agriculture. It also signals Zambia’s intent to reposition itself as a competitive player in regional textile production.
The investment has already begun to deliver tangible outcomes, with the factory expected to create over 500 jobs once fully operational. These employment opportunities will directly benefit local communities in Kabwe and surrounding areas, while also stimulating economic activity through increased household incomes. Beyond job creation, the company plans to export its products across the Southern African region, which will generate foreign exchange and strengthen Zambia’s trade balance. The factory also creates a dependable market for local cotton farmers, offering them stable demand and predictable income streams. This linkage between agriculture and manufacturing is critical for building a resilient value chain that supports long-term economic growth.
Mulungushi Textiles General Manager Brigadier General Emmanuel Sementi confirmed that the plant is ready to begin full-color production after outdated machinery was removed and replaced with modern equipment. The company is set to commence full-scale production in April, following the successful completion of a month-long machine testing phase scheduled for March. This transition marks a key step toward full operational readiness and reflects careful planning in the factory’s revival process. The facility is currently supported by a stable power supply from ZESCO, secured through a special arrangement that ensures uninterrupted production. In addition, a 200 megawatt solar plant project is underway, which will enhance energy security and contribute surplus electricity to the national grid.
The factory is also benefiting from a steady supply of essential raw materials, including fabric and chemicals required for textile production. This consistent supply chain ensures that operations can run efficiently without disruptions, which is critical for meeting both local and export demand. The integration of reliable inputs, modern machinery, and stable energy supply positions Mulungushi Textiles as a strong competitor in the regional market. It also creates opportunities for skills development, as workers gain hands-on experience with updated production technologies. These advancements reinforce the broader goal of rebuilding Zambia’s industrial base while promoting innovation and efficiency.
The revival of Mulungushi Textiles represents more than the reopening of a factory; it marks the rebirth of Zambia’s textile industry. By linking farmers, manufacturers, and export markets, the project creates a comprehensive ecosystem that supports sustainable growth. The investment demonstrates how targeted industrial development can generate jobs, increase exports, and strengthen economic resilience. As production ramps up in the coming months, the factory is expected to play a central role in driving both local and regional economic activity. This milestone reflects Zambia’s commitment to industrial transformation and sets a foundation for future growth in the manufacturing sector.