The Government of Zambia is facilitating the development of an Edible Oils Strategy to boost national oilseeds production and value addition. Zambia is currently relying on imported edible oils, which are killing the local industry, taking jobs and income from farmers.
What is Zambia Seed Company?
Zambia Seed Company (Zamseed) is the only government parastatal company in Zambia involved in producing, processing and marketing seed varieties. It was established in 1980 with assistance from the Swedish International Development Authority.
Who makes edible oils in Zambia?
Multinational corporations produce the majority of edible oils in Zambia and small-scale businesses have a smaller stake in the industry. Farmers, both small-scale and commercial, have been affected by the market volatility resulting from a glut in imported edible oils.
How are seeds traded in Zambia?
In Zambia, farmer-to-farmer and local diffusion mechanisms are the main distribution channels through which farmers get their seeds (although the formal seed sector also produces and markets most of the seeds). There are 20 index companies present in Zambia.