From Copper to Beef: What Does President Hichilema’s $1 Billion Beef Export Vision Mean for the Livestock Industry and for Us?

Recently, President Hakainde Hichilema called for a bold transformation in Zambia’s economy: moving away from overdependence on mineral exports (especially copper) and unlocking the vast potential of the livestock sector, aiming for US$1 billion in annual beef export revenue.

At Zamgoat, we believe this vision speaks directly to the work we and many of you are already doing to build a stronger, more inclusive, and more sustainable livestock economy.

But what does this really mean for the industry? And what do we all need to consider to make this dream a reality?

Why Is This Shift So Important?

For decades, Zambia’s economy has been shaped by the highs and lows of global copper prices. However, beyond the mines lies a powerful and often underutilized economic engine: livestock farming. President Hichilema’s call highlights that Zambia’s future prosperity is not only underground but also in our fields, kraals, and butcheries. This shift offers multiple key benefits, including rural wealth creation as smallholder farmers stand to gain from the growing demand for quality livestock. It also opens up new market opportunities, with countries like Angola, the DRC, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia eager for reliable meat exports. Moreover, the livestock sector presents vast agribusiness opportunities from breeding and processing to packaging and cold chain logistics inviting innovation and investment. Ultimately, diversifying the economy through livestock strengthens national resilience, making Zambia better equipped to withstand global economic shocks.

What Needs to Be Done?

While the government has laid out a vision for boosting beef exports, turning that vision into reality will require collective action across multiple fronts. Here’s what needs to happen for Zambia to successfully become a major meat exporter:

• Strengthen Animal Health Systems Disease control is non-negotiable for export markets. Zambia needs a robust, well-resourced veterinary infrastructure — including vaccination programs, regular inspections, and strong disease surveillance to ensure consistent compliance with international standards.

• Develop Export-Grade Infrastructure From feedlots and abattoirs to cold storage facilities and certified processing plants, the entire meat value chain must be modernized. Export success depends on hygienic, traceable, and timely meat delivery and that means major investments in infrastructure.

• Empower Small-Scale Farmers Smallholders are the backbone of Zambia’s livestock sector. Without targeted support in training, access to finance, improved breeds, and market linkages, they may be left out of the export opportunity. We need inclusive models that pull farmers into the formal economy, not leave them behind.

• Establish Reliable Market AccessOpening and maintaining export markets (e.g., to the DRC, Angola, UAE, and beyond) requires strong trade agreements, marketing strategies, and a national meat export brand that builds global trust in Zambia’s livestock products.

• Policy Stability and Private Sector IncentivesClear, consistent policies are critical. The private sector must be given room to lead, supported by fair regulations, export incentives, and long-term partnerships. Public-private collaboration will be the engine that drives success.

• Balance Export and Local Demand Even as we grow exports, it’s essential to ensure that local communities continue to access affordable, quality meat. Exporting should enhance, not harm, national food security and nutrition.

What We Must Keep in Mind

While the vision is inspiring, it also brings important responsibilities for everyone in the value chain from goat and cattle farmers to meat processors like us at Zamgoat. Export markets demand strict compliance with quality and health standards, making disease control, traceability, and veterinary support essential. To support large-scale, safe exports, significant investment is needed to upgrade cold chain systems, abattoirs, and transport networks. Additionally, the inclusion of small-scale farmers is crucial; without proper training and support, they risk being excluded from these emerging opportunities, so inclusive models must be prioritized. Finally, as exports grow, it is vital to ensure that Zambians continue to have access to affordable, high-quality meat, maintaining a balance between export ambitions and local food security.

Where Does Zamgoat Fit In?

At Zamgoat, we’re already working to professionalize goat and meat production in Zambia through value addition, reliable supply chains, and strong community engagement. This vision aligns perfectly with our mission.

We see ourselves not just as processors, but as partners in rural development, nutrition, and national transformation. Whether you’re a farmer, a restaurant, a retailer, or a policymaker this is the time to act.

Final Thoughts.

Zambia’s shift from minerals to meat isn’t just possible, it’s necessary. And if we do it right, it could build a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for all.

As the livestock sector rises in national importance, let’s rise with it together.