President Hichilema to Reopen $140 Million Mulungushi Textiles in Landmark Jobs Drive

President Hakainde Hichilema will today reopen the Zambia-China Mulungushi Textiles facility in Kabwe, marking one of the most significant milestones in Zambia's industrialisation drive since the New Dawn government came to power.

The $140 million investment, undertaken in partnership with the Government of the People's Republic of China, is expected to create over 500 direct jobs and bring more than 2,500 cotton farmers back into active production, delivering a major boost to communities across the agricultural value chain.

The announcement was made by Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga during the ground-breaking ceremony for the Zambia Petrochemical Energy Company Limited refinery in Ndola.

"This project represents an investment of over US$140 million, undertaken in partnership with our longstanding and reliable friends, the Government of the People's Republic of China," Minister Mulenga said.

He described the reopening as a defining moment for Zambia's economic transformation agenda, highlighting the installation of brand new equipment and the engagement of dedicated extension officers to support newly onboarded cotton farmers.

"The revitalisation of Mulungushi Textiles will have far-reaching benefits across the value chain," he added, pointing to the wider stimulus effect on local communities and downstream industries.

The reopening underscores the government's commitment to rebuilding Zambia's manufacturing base, restoring industrial capacity that had long sat dormant, and creating sustainable livelihoods for Zambians across the country.