Textile factory in Zambia revives with China's aid

One of the biggest textile factories in Zambia is being revived with Chinese assistance after nearly two decades of dormancy, a major step in Zambia's efforts to rebuild its manufacturing base and reduce dependence on imported goods.

"This is the rebirth of Zambia's textile sector. We will now produce high-quality uniforms and textiles locally using modern technology," Zambia's Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga said.

The factory, officially known as the Zambia-China Mulungushi Textiles Joint Venture, is located in Kabwe, Zambia's Central Province, about 130 kilometers north of the capital Lusaka. It originally ceased major operations around January 2007 due to a combination of financial difficulties, outdated machinery and high maintenance costs, with spare parts often requiring importation. Previous attempts to revive the plant proved unsustainable, leaving it largely inactive until the current large-scale rehabilitation.

The rehabilitation of the factory, costing about $140 million, builds on earlier collaboration with a corporation in China's Qingdao and is now being implemented under the joint venture framework with updated equipment and systems.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the factory's reopening last month, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema described the reopening as a milestone in restoring Zambia's productive capacity and advancing its industrialization agenda.

"Keeping such an asset idle for close to 20 years is a waste that Zambia cannot afford, especially as we accelerate development," he said.

Practical outcome

He added that the project is a practical outcome of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Zambia.

"The reopening of this plant reflects the strong and mutually beneficial relationship between Zambia and China, particularly in areas of industrialization and economic transformation," he said.

Mulenga said the factory is now fully operational following a successful test run of its advanced, AI-powered systems. He added that the use of artificial intelligence will improve efficiency, enhance quality control and lower production costs, enabling locally manufactured textiles to compete more effectively in both domestic and regional markets.

Mulenga said the plant is expected to create between 400 and 500 direct jobs, with thousands more benefiting indirectly through the cotton supply chain and related industries.

The minister said the factory will play a key role in supporting agriculture by providing a stable market for cotton, with plans to expand farmer participation as operations grow.

Local business leaders also welcomed the reopening. Kapai Banda, president of the Kabwe Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the revival of Mulungushi Textiles represents a restoration of lost economic opportunities.

He noted that the plant was once one of the largest employers in the region and played a central role in supporting local businesses and livelihoods before its closure nearly 20 years ago.

Banda added that the project demonstrates confidence in Zambia's economic potential and called for continued investment in infrastructure to support industrial growth, including improved transportation connectivity.

For local residents, the reopening brings renewed hope for employment and skills development, particularly among young people who have faced limited opportunities in recent years.

The revival is expected to help restore Kabwe's position as an important industrial center after years of economic decline.

The writer is a freelance journalist for China Daily.