Feedlot in the Southern Province of Zambia that sources its own feed, and produces maize and sorghum silage and sunflower seed.
Ilobezi is located in Zambia’s Southern Province – historically a drought-prone area and home to the majority of Zambia’s cattle farming. AgDevCo recognised the economic and social potential of working with Ilobezi to create a market for premium cattle by modernising its management systems, improving cattle feed and introducing best practice husbandry. Ilobezi buys over 5,000 cattle each year from smallholder farmers and is contributing significantly to long-term income increases in the region.
During the 2016/17 growing season, AgDevCo worked with Ilobezi to pilot sorghum silage as an alternative to maize silage. The trial resulted in higher yields and a wider harvesting window for a crop with greater resilience to drought. Sorghum is now grown annually on a 120-hectare plot and lowers the risk significantly of a cattle feed shortfall.
| Investment | Total invested | Investment type | Start date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goldenlay | - | Debt / Equity | 2019 |
| Ilobezi Limited | $1,200,000 | Debt / Equity | 2016 |
| Katito Farming Enterprises Ltd | $9,200,000 | Debt / Equity | 2017 |
| Saise Farming Enterprises Ltd (SFEL) | $5,715,000 | Debt / Equity | 2016 |