Faith Mukutu is the first Zambian and the first woman to lead Zambeef Products Plc (Zambeef) as CEO in its 28-year history. Zambeef is one of Zambia’s most extensive integrated cold-chain food products and agribusiness companies.
Faith Mukutu initially aspired to become a medical doctor, but she later discovered her passion for finance, where her natural analytical skills thrived. In 2019, she joined Zambeef as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Her extensive experience in financial management and strategic planning made her a valuable asset to the company. In July 2022, she took on the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) role.
Zambeef operates across the entire value chain, including the primary production, processing, distribution, and retailing of beef, chicken, pork, milk, dairy products, fish, flour, and stock feed. The company boasts a network of 236 retail outlets across Zambia and West Africa, playing a crucial role in ensuring food security and supporting the agricultural economy in the region.
Since joining the company, Faith Mukutu has led it in launching an ambitious five-year, $100 million expansion plan. As part of this, the company secured a $35 million investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The capital plans to enhance crop production and expand capacity in stock feed, milling, meat processing, and retail operations. A key focus is to double the wheat and soybean production at Mpongwe Farms by increasing the area under cultivation from 3,343 hectares of irrigated land to 7,621 hectares of rainfed land. This expansion is expected to boost food production, improve supply chain efficiency, and create employment opportunities, strengthening Zambia’s agricultural sector.
In the 2024 financial year, Zambeef reported revenue of ZMW 7.3 billion (about $295.1 million) and a gross profit of ZMW 2.5 billion (roughly $99.8 million), reflecting a 21% increase compared to previous years.
Mukutu leads Zambeef CSR drive
Zambeef has demonstrated a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility by investing $15,800 (approximately ZMW250000) in a water project for the village of Makanya in Kafue District. This initiative involved the installation of multiple water points, including 3,000-litre and 2,000-litre tanks, strategically placed to benefit over 300 households.
The project aligns with the company’s Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030. During the handover ceremony, Mukutu emphasised Zambeef’s dedication to supporting local communities and promoting sustainable practices.
Beyond its financial achievements, the company has positioned itself as a socially responsible corporate leader. In 2024, the Zambia Revenue Authority recognised Zambeef as the highest taxpayer in the agricultural sector, acknowledging its significant contribution to national development. The chief executive has firmly established herself as a transformative force in Zambia’s agribusiness sector.
