Image credit: Savenda poultry farms
Here are some of the top farms and producers supplying eggs in Zambia:
- Mega Eggs (Quantum Foods Zambia): Located in Chingola, this is one of Zambia's largest egg suppliers, producing a significant number of trays daily to meet national demand. Mega Eggs is part of Quantum Foods South Africa, ensuring quality and wide distribution
- Savenda Farms (Eggmen): Based in Palabana, Lusaka, Savenda operates the "Eggmen" brand, with over 50,000 laying chickens and producing around 45,000 trays of eggs monthly. They supply both local markets and neighboring countries
- Mutanda Farms: Located in Solwezi, Mpongwe, and Chingola, Mutanda Farms specializes in egg production alongside diversified agricultural activities, making it a key player in Zambia’s agribusiness sector
- Zambeef Products Plc: While primarily known for meat production, Zambeef also includes egg production in its operations, offering quality poultry products across Zambia.
- Ross Breeders Zambia Ltd: This company provides eggs and poultry products and is a prominent supplier in the local Zambian market.
- Hybrid Poultry Zambia: Known for high-quality poultry farming, this farm is a reliable source of eggs and chicks for Zambian households and businesses.
- Farm Pride: Specializing in premium egg production, Farm Pride has carved out a niche for supplying fresh and well-packaged eggs.
- Goldenlay Agri Limited: Located in the Copperbelt, this company focuses on egg production and distribution, offering a significant supply to the Zambian market.
- Country Choice Farms: This farm provides high-quality eggs and other poultry products, maintaining a strong presence in local supermarkets and stores.
- Chibombo Farms: Situated in Central Province, this farm is known for consistent egg production and supply to various parts of Zambia.
These farms and suppliers play a crucial role in meeting the dietary and commercial needs of the Zambian population. They also contribute significantly to the agricultural economy by ensuring food security and providing employment opportunities.
Common markets for eggs across Zambia
In Zambia, the egg market is dynamic and includes various sales points ranging from wholesale suppliers to retail outlets and export destinations. Here are the key aspects of the egg markets in Zambia:Local Markets and Distributors:
Major Cities: Lusaka and Kitwe are the primary hubs for egg distribution, with prices ranging from approximately ZMW 17.19 to ZMW 27.07 per kilogram in retail markets
Supermarkets and Retail Chains: Stores like Shoprite and Pick n Pay are popular for packaged eggs catering to urban consumers.
Roadside Vendors and Open Markets: These are crucial for lower-income buyers who prefer smaller quantities.
Wholesale and Large-Scale Distributors:
Mutanda Farms (King Eggs): This large-scale producer distributes eggs extensively in Zambia and neighboring countries, producing over 75 million eggs annually.
Hybrid Poultry Farm: In addition to broilers, they supply eggs through wholesale networks
Export Markets:
Zambia also exports eggs primarily to:Zimbabwe: The largest destination, accounting for over $5 million of exports in 2022.
Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Kenya, and Botswana: Other significant markets for Zambian eggs
Trends:
Egg production in Zambia is growing steadily, with consumption expected to reach 60,500 metric tons by 2026, driven by local and regional demand. This growth highlights the importance of efficient distribution networks and biosecurity measures in sustaining market expansion.Common uses for eggs in Zambia
In Zambia, eggs are widely used in households, restaurants, and industries due to their versatility and nutritional value. Common uses include:
1. Culinary Applications:
Breakfast Dishes: Eggs are a staple breakfast item, often prepared as fried, boiled, or scrambled eggs, and served with bread or nshima (a maize-based dish).
Baking: They are essential in baking cakes, bread, and pastries, acting as a binding and leavening agent.
Savory Dishes: Eggs are included in stews, curries, and as toppings for rice dishes.
Savory Dishes: Eggs are included in stews, curries, and as toppings for rice dishes.
Snacks: Hard-boiled eggs are popular as a convenient snack, particularly sold by street vendors.
2. Cultural and Festive Uses:
Eggs are often included in meals during celebrations and gatherings, symbolizing prosperity and fertility in some local traditions.
3. Industrial Uses:
In processed food industries, eggs are used in producing mayonnaise, sauces, and noodles.
Eggshells are sometimes repurposed in agriculture as a source of calcium for soil and animal feed.
Eggshells are sometimes repurposed in agriculture as a source of calcium for soil and animal feed.
4. Nutrition and Healthcare:
Eggs are recommended for nutritional programs targeting malnutrition, especially in children and pregnant women, due to their high protein and vitamin content
Their accessibility and versatility make eggs a significant part of Zambian diets and culture.
Their accessibility and versatility make eggs a significant part of Zambian diets and culture.