Govt unveils plans for Chinsali Industrial Yard in drive for inclusive growth

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The Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development has announced plans to construct an Industrial Yard in Chinsali, Muchinga Province, marking a major step in the government’s strategy to stimulate industrial development, job creation, and rural economic empowerment.

The initiative, supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB), is part of a broader nationwide program aimed at enhancing light manufacturing and strengthening local value chains, especially in sectors such as cassava production.

According to Muchinga Province Principal Public Relations Officer Ruth Mumba, the project is well underway with land already identified and surveys currently being conducted by technical teams on the ground.

“Central, Muchinga, and Southern Provinces have been the only ones left out of this transformative program,” Ms. Mumba said. “We are pleased to report that plans for the Chinsali Industrial Yard are progressing well.”

The new facility is expected to break ground in June 2026 at an estimated cost of USD 28 million, with funding provided by the AfDB.

Ms. Mumba said the Industrial Yard in Chinsali is expected to provide a much-needed boost to local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by creating space for light manufacturing, promoting industrial clustering, and providing value chain support for agricultural producers.

Among the key components of the project is a Capacity Building Program designed to enhance the technical and business skills of MSMEs and cooperatives, enabling them to compete effectively and contribute to local economic growth.

“This facility will not only help us build competitive local businesses,” said Ms. Mumba, “but also empower rural farmers and entrepreneurs, especially those involved in the cassava value chain.”

She said the project is directly aligned with the government’s agenda to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth. It also supports Zambia’s long-term vision of decentralizing industrial development and creating employment opportunities beyond urban centers.

So far, the Ministry has constructed and operationalized Industrial Yards in Lusaka, Kitwe, Ndola, Solwezi, Mongu, Mansa, Kasama, and Chipata.

These facilities have become vital economic hubs, facilitating small-scale production, skills development, and access to markets.

As the project moves closer to the implementation phase, Ms. Mumba is calling on traditional leaders, local authorities, and other stakeholders to offer their full support and cooperation.

“This is a chance for Muchinga to catch up with other regions and be part of Zambia’s new industrial era,” Ms. Mumba said. “We are confident this project will transform livelihoods and uplift communities across the province.”

With construction expected to begin next year, hopes are high that the Chinsali Industrial Yard will serve as a model of rural industrialization bridging the gap between policy and prosperity.

Ends……………………………

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