By Staff Writer
In order to meet the current and growing demand for treated poles in the country, the Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation (ZAFFICO) has invested K55 million into an additional creosote treatment line and a wooden pole drying kiln.
ZAFFICO Public Relations Manager Irene Chipili said the investment will increase production levels of creosote poles from the current 70,000 to 160,000 poles per annum representing a percentage production increment of 128%.
Ms Chipili said the Corporation has since awarded contracts for the design, supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of the kiln and creosote treatment line.
She said ZAFFICO is also in the process of undertaking Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the Plant to ensure compliance to relevant environmental legislation. The Plant is expected to be commissioned in October 2023.
“The Corporation would like to take this opportunity to thank its customers across the various sectors for the support. In particular, ZAFFICO extends its gratitude to utility companies who in the past two years have procured over 100,000 poles from the Corporation,” she said.
Ms Chipili said with the expansion works at the Plant, the Corporation is confident that it will fulfill the growing local demand for treated poles as well as expand into the regional market.
In addition, the Corporation is in the process of investing into other value addition activities so as to provide a variety of wood products while at the same time, contributing to the national economy and supporting livelihoods in the Corporation’s operational areas.
