The Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries has unveiled a bold strategy to increase Zambia’s national cattle population from the current 5.1 million to 7.4 million by the year 2027. The initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to position the livestock sector as a key contributor to economic growth and rural development.
Speaking at the 97th Agriculture and Commercial Show Exhibitors’ luncheon on Thursday, Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Peter Kapala outlined the government’s vision and ongoing progress in transforming the sector. He emphasised the strategic importance of livestock in enhancing food security, creating jobs, and generating national income.
“The Agricultural and Commercial Show remains one of the most important events on our national calendar. It brings together farmers, innovators, researchers, private sector players, and policymakers,” said Minister Kapala. “It is in platforms like these that partnerships are built and solutions are found.”
As part of the ministry’s achievements, the minister revealed that more than 475 million fingerlings have already been produced — surpassing the 460 million target outlined in the Seventh National Development Plan (SNDP) for 2026. This milestone reflects strong progress in aquaculture, which continues to play a critical role in ensuring protein security and income for smallholder farmers.
The cattle expansion initiative is expected to be driven by a combination of improved breeding programs, disease control measures, enhanced extension services, and public-private partnerships. The government aims to create an enabling environment for both small-scale and commercial livestock farmers to thrive.
With livestock playing an increasingly vital role in rural livelihoods, the Ministry’s efforts are geared toward creating a sustainable ecosystem where productivity, animal health, and market access are improved across the board. The livestock and fisheries sectors are being positioned as pillars of Zambia’s agricultural transformation agenda.
As the country moves toward the 2027 target, stakeholders across the agriculture value chain are expected to play a collaborative role in ensuring that livestock production not only meets domestic needs but also contributes to exports and regional food security.