Bayer has inaugurated a new maize seed facility in Kabwe, Zambia, as part of its effort to improve food security in Sub-Saharan Africa. The company has invested 32 million euros in the facility, along with additional investments in organizational infrastructure and the grower network. This development will triple Bayer's maize seed production capacity in Zambia by 2025, translating to maize consumption sufficient for approximately 30 million people. Seed production output is projected to continue increasing in the future.

This expansion is the second-largest private investment by a German company in Zambia. According to Bayer CEO Bill Anderson, the initiative is part of the company’s mission to combat hunger, especially in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, where food insecurity is a pressing concern. The site was inaugurated in the presence of Zambia’s President, Hakainde Hichilema.

Empowering Smallholder Farmers for Food Security

Sub-Saharan Africa, despite its extensive arable land, faces significant food and nutrition insecurity, affecting one in five people. Limited agronomic knowledge and restricted access to modern farming technologies are major contributing factors. Bayer’s new facility aims to address these challenges by enhancing the supply of certified maize seeds that offer higher yields and improved resilience to climate and disease conditions.

These hybrid maize seeds, combined with agronomic training and stewardship, are designed to help smallholder farmers improve productivity. Smallholder farmers, who typically cultivate less than 10 hectares of land, produce around 70% of the continent’s food. By providing improved seed quality, Bayer aims to empower 6.4 million farmers in Zambia and neighboring countries this year and expand that reach to 10 million by 2030.

"Improved productivity not only enhances food security but also positively impacts the lives of smallholder farmers and their communities," said Debra Mallowah, Bayer’s Head for Crop Science in Africa. This initiative aligns with Bayer's broader objective of supporting 21.5 million African smallholders and 100 million globally by 2030.

Strategic Investment for Growth in Africa

This investment also presents a significant business opportunity for Bayer, given Africa's rapidly growing agricultural market. Demand for Bayer's Dekalb maize hybrids has consistently exceeded supply, emphasizing the need for increased production capacity. The new site is integral to Bayer's plan to double its Crop Science Division's business in Africa by 2030. An additional 35 million euros will be invested by 2028 to expand the seed production network across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Community Support and Economic Growth

The new Kabwe facility is set to stimulate economic growth by creating employment and business opportunities. Bayer plans to hire 80 permanent staff members and over 100 seasonal workers at the site. Additionally, approximately 15,000 seasonal on-farm jobs will be generated through Bayer’s field operations and contracted growers.

As part of its commitment to the community, Bayer is funding two key initiatives in the Kabwe area. Improved water accessibility will be facilitated by upgrading a borehole system, installing a new water tank, and providing additional piping infrastructure. Furthermore, Bayer will collaborate with Zambia’s Ministry of Health, the Municipality of Kabwe, and local partners to establish a healthcare center near the facility. This center aims to provide vital healthcare services to over 10,000 residents, including Bayer employees and their families.

"This investment will advance food security, empower farmers, and support communities across Africa. It also represents an exciting growth opportunity for Bayer," concluded Bill Anderson.