Zambia's Avocado Sector Reaches New Heights

Zambia’s agricultural sector is taking a major step forward with the successful rollout of locally grown, premium avocados, spearheaded by the Lusaka Avocado Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (LAMCS). The cooperative recently delivered its first batch of high-quality avocados to Shoprite Zambia stores - an achievement marked with an official launch event at the Shoprite Manda Hill store in Lusaka.

This landmark partnership is not just about fruit on shelves. It also opens vital business opportunities for small-scale avocado growers across Zambia.

"The event brought together key stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mwendalubi Moono Msok; the Managing Director of Shoprite Zambia, Charles Bota; and the board members of the LAMCS," said John Chowa of LAMCS. “This collaboration is a significant step in Zambia's agricultural transformation and aligns perfectly with the government's vision of promoting high-value crops through the Comprehensive Agriculture Transformation Support Program (CATSP)."

Speaking at the launch, Permanent Secretary Mwendalubi Moono Msok praised the initiative. "Today, we are witnessing the fruits of a true partnership between Zambian farmers and the private sector. Shoprite's commitment to sourcing locally produced avocados creates an effective model of sustainable agri-food development."

In a further boost to the industry, bilateral trade agreements between Zambia and South Africa were also announced, paving the way for avocado exports to one of Africa’s largest and most advanced markets. A Ministry of Agriculture representative noted, "This agreement provides our farmers with access to one of the most advanced markets on the continent. We are working closely with the growers to ensure their products meet all the required phytosanitary and quality standards for export."

LAMCS board chairman, Engineer Bernard Chiwala, added that the initiative aims to ensure year-round supply while prioritising sustainability by coordinating production across Zambia’s different agro-ecological zones.

With global demand for avocados projected to rise by 10% annually, Zambia, with its ideal climate and growing conditions, is well placed to become a serious contender in the global market. LAMCS’ efforts are poised to enhance food security, create jobs, and boost the national economy.