Government has said its ambition is to see the manufacturing sector contribute up to 30 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product GDP by the year 2030 from the under 10 percent it currently contributes.
Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati has said the manufacturing industry is a key component of economic growth, as such, the new dawn government is focused on creating confidence as a basis for increased investments.
Mr Mutati said the manufacturing sector is also a critical motor for job creation and entrepreneurship and therefore, government is passionate to create an enabling environment in which the sector can make profits which would also increase government’s revenue collection.
The minister was speaking after a conducted tour of the Zambian Breweries plant in Lusaka to appreciate the company’s digital transformation and use of technology.
Mr Mutati expressed delight that while Zambian Breweries was on the right path to grow the country’s economy, government’s digital strategy and digital skills are put in practice by the entity for increased productivity and innovation.
He said Zambian Breweries practical investment in its production plant shows the confidence it has in government, calling on other manufacturers to also invest more in order for the sector to achieve the 2030 GDP contribution target.
And Mr Mutati said government wants to eliminate illicit products in the manufacturing sector using a consultative approach in arriving at sustainable solutions that will not derail investment in the sector.
Meanwhile, Zambian Breweries PLC Country Director Michelle Kilpin said the company will endeavour to ensure that it works closely with government so as to better the economy and grow its GDP contribution.
Ms Kilpin said the company is making an investment of $80 million which will ultimately see the capacity of the plant double with new equipment already being installed.
And Zambia Association of Manufactures Acting Chief Executive Officer Sopani Muzumara said the association has anchored it’s 5 year strategic plan on science and technology to identify gaps in the sector while providing solutions.
