President Hichilema Commissions Zambia’s First Glucose and Starch Plant

President Hakainde Hichilema has commissioned Zambia’s first-ever glucose and starch manufacturing plant - a milestone moment for the country’s industrialisation and agricultural value chain.

The US$110 million facility, located in the Lusaka Multi-Facility Economic Zone (MFEZ), has been developed by Kingsworth Group Limited (KGL), a subsidiary of the Trade Kings Group of Companies. The commissioning ceremony was graced by President Hichilema and attended by high-ranking government officials and industry leaders.

According to a statement from Trade Kings’ Corporate Affairs Department, the Group has so far invested more than US$1 billion in Zambia, employing over 17,500 full-time workers nationwide.

Once operating at full capacity, the KGL plant is expected to source over 126,000 tonnes of maize annually from local farmers, providing a reliable market for thousands of smallholders and strengthening the nation’s agribusiness supply chain. The plant will produce starch, glucose, and maltodextrin, essential ingredients in food and beverage manufacturing, thereby enhancing Zambia’s food security and industrial output.

Speaking at the event, Phil Daka, Group Executive Director for Corporate Affairs, described the project as “a defining milestone in Zambia’s journey towards economic transformation and self-reliance.”

He noted that the new facility positions Zambia as the third-largest producer of glucose and starch in Africa, after Egypt and South Africa. The project is set to create more than 1,000 direct jobs, save around US$30 million annually in imports, and generate up to US$150 million in export potential.

“This project represents a national achievement - a bold step towards self-reliance, industrialisation, and inclusive growth,” Daka said. “Together with government, we will continue building industries that create jobs, expand exports, and transform Zambia into a modern, prosperous nation.”