Zambia: Cashew nut production falls short

THE current demand for local cashew nuts is pegged at 50,000 tonnes which could lead to a possible revenue of K200 million but local producers are unable to meet that, Western Cashew Industries Limited has said.
Company managing director Moses Shimbilimbili said Zambia needs to put in place measures that will help meet the 50,000-tonne demand to earn more than K200 million.
He explained that 500,000 tonnes of cashew nuts would translate into more than K200 million and more than 10,000 job opportunities.

“You must understand that 50,000 tonnes translate in to K200 million and over 10,000 employment opportunities and 100,000 farmers will also benefit,” he said.
In an interview in Mongu yesterday, Mr Shimbilimbili said to tap into the opportunities, huge investment was needed to support the demand and growth of the industry.
“What we are saying is that Government had abandoned the industry in the past but has now responded positively and we are happy.
What we are doing now is to harness the response and we have developed another five-year plan to highlight the needs of the farmers, the processors and the Government’s interest,” he said.
Mr Shimbilimbili said the plan would support the growth of the industry and be able to meet the market demand of 50,000 tonnes.

Source: times.co.zm