Bayer has officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art maize seed production facility in Kabwe, Zambia. This 32-million-euro investment marks a significant expansion of Bayer’s efforts to support food security in Sub-Saharan Africa. With this facility and additional investments in operational infrastructure and grower networks, Bayer is set to triple its maize seed production capacity in Zambia by 2025. This expansion translates into an annual maize supply sufficient to feed approximately 30 million people in the region, with expectations for further increases in the coming years.
The facility’s high-yielding maize seeds are targeted to reach 6.4 million smallholder farmers across Zambia and other Sub-Saharan African countries this year, with the number projected to grow to 10 million by 2030. This initiative represents the second-largest private investment by a German company in Zambia and underscores Bayer’s commitment to addressing food insecurity on a large scale.
A Step Toward Combating Food Insecurity
The challenge of food insecurity remains pressing in Sub-Saharan Africa, where one in five people suffer from inadequate access to food and proper nutrition. Despite the region’s vast agricultural potential, factors such as limited access to modern farming techniques, high-quality seeds, and agronomic knowledge continue to hinder productivity.
Bayer’s new seed production site aims to address these barriers by enhancing both the quantity and quality of available certified maize seeds. The high-yield hybrid maize varieties developed at the facility offer increased resilience against climate change and crop diseases, helping farmers produce more food efficiently. Alongside its seed production, Bayer is providing stewardship and agronomic training to equip farmers with the knowledge needed to maximize yields and sustain long-term productivity.
Empowering Smallholder Farmers for Economic and Social Growth
Smallholder farmers play a critical role in ensuring food security in Africa. On average, they cultivate less than 10 hectares of land yet contribute up to 70% of the continent’s food supply. By improving their access to superior maize seeds and agronomic training, Bayer is enabling these farmers to enhance their yields and, in turn, improve their livelihoods.
“Enhanced productivity not only increases food security but also makes a tremendous difference for the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, their families, and their communities,” said Debra Mallowah, Head of Bayer’s Crop Science Division in Africa.
Bayer’s goal is to reach 21.5 million smallholder farmers across Africa and 100 million globally by 2030. This investment in Zambia is a significant step toward achieving that goal, as it is expected to reach 10 million farmers by the decade’s end.
Strengthening Bayer’s Growth Strategy in Africa
While the primary objective of this initiative is to combat food insecurity and support smallholder farmers, it also represents a strategic business opportunity for Bayer. Africa is one of the world’s fastest-growing markets with immense agricultural potential. Demand for Bayer’s Dekalb brand hybrid maize seeds has consistently outstripped supply, demonstrating strong market growth.
To capitalize on this demand, Bayer has committed an additional 35 million euros for further expansion of its seed production network across Sub-Saharan Africa through 2028. This expansion aligns with Bayer’s broader strategy to double the Crop Science Division’s business on the continent by 2030. Given maize’s status as a staple food crop in Africa, particularly in Zambia—where a maize-based dish known as “nshima” provides 60% of daily caloric intake—this investment is well-positioned to have a substantial impact.
Economic and Community Development in Kabwe
Beyond agriculture, Bayer’s investment in the Kabwe facility is expected to stimulate economic growth in the region. The facility is projected to create 80 permanent jobs and employ over 100 seasonal workers and contractors. Additionally, the broader seed production operations will generate approximately 15,000 seasonal on-farm jobs, benefiting contract growers and their communities.
Bayer is also committed to supporting the well-being of local communities in Kabwe through two major social initiatives:
- Improved Water Access: Recognizing the need for reliable water sources, Bayer is funding the rehabilitation of a borehole and installation of a new storage tank and piping system to improve water accessibility for the neighboring community.
- Healthcare Access: Many residents near the facility currently face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, with the nearest health facility located up to 20 kilometers away. In collaboration with Zambia’s Ministry of Health, the Municipality of Kabwe, Project Concern Zambia, and the local community, Bayer will establish a new health center. This facility will provide essential medical services to more than 10,000 residents, including Bayer employees and their dependents.
A Commitment to Food Security and Sustainable Growth
The launch of this facility marks a pivotal moment in Bayer’s efforts to enhance food security, empower smallholder farmers, and support community development across Africa. As food demand continues to rise, investments in agricultural innovation, infrastructure, and farmer education will be essential in securing a sustainable food supply for the continent.
“The new facility will help us improve food security, empower smallholder farmers, and support communities in numerous countries on the African continent. It’s also a great business opportunity for Bayer. We can’t wait to ramp up production,” concluded Bill Anderson, Bayer’s Chief Executive Officer.
By increasing seed production capacity, strengthening agronomic support, and contributing to local economic and social development, Bayer is reinforcing its commitment to creating a more food-secure future for millions of people across Africa.
