Burundian company, Itracom Fertilizer Limited, has announced plans to construct a one‑million‑metric‑tonne-a-year fertiliser plant in Zambia, a development the government says could ease the country’s long‑standing dependence on imported inputs.
Itracom Fertilizer Limited, which operates organic and mineral fertiliser plants in Burundi and has expanded into East and Central Africa, said Zambia’s abundant raw materials make it an ideal location for large‑scale production.
Speaking following a meeting with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema at State House in Lusaka on Monday, Itracom chairperson Adrien Ntigacika said the proposed plant is expected to create about 5,000 jobs and position Zambia as a regional supplier once operational.
Hichilema welcomed the investment, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening domestic production and stabilising supply for the agriculture sector.
He noted that the project stems from economic cooperation discussions held during the 2024 state visit by Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye, adding that the investment reflected growing regional partnerships aimed at boosting industrial capacity.
Zambia has for years grappled with high fertiliser costs and recurrent procurement challenges, largely driven by reliance on foreign suppliers and global price volatility.
The government has repeatedly stated that expanding local manufacturing capacity is key to lowering prices for farmers and improving food security.
JN/APA