President Hakainde Hichilema is expected in Kabwe this morning to reopen Zambia-China Mulungushi Textiles (ZCMT) plant after about more than 20 years of closure to pave way for a $140 million upgrade with modern machinery.
Trial runs have already been done and since produced 10,000 meters of cloth, with full swing operations planned for April/May 2026, with view to generate over 500 direct jobs and boost local cotton farming.
The facility in Kabwe has undergone final testing and it’s ready for official commissioning by President Hichilema.
The newly installed, state-of-the-art machinery is capable of printing, spinning, and manufacturing fabrics and uniforms.
The revitalization of Mulungushi textiles aims to cut down on textile imports and provide a market for local cotton growers, supporting over 2,000 farmers, with plans to partner with thousands more in Central Province.
The plant is projected to create over 500 direct jobs, providing a major employment boost to the Kabwe district.
Mulungushi Textiles a joint venture between Zambia and China, was previously a major employer in Kabwe and had been closed for over 20 years before the UPND Government sourced for funds to revive it.