The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed conversion of 1,500 hectares of land from ranching to sugarcane cultivation at Farm No. REM 231A and 232A, Bantabury, Mazabuka by Kaleya Smallholder Company Limited (KASCOL), has been prepared in compliance with the Environmental Management Act No. 12 of 2011, Environmental Protection and Pollution Control (EIA) Regulations SI No. 28 of 1997, and international safeguard policies. The project seeks to enhance Zambia’s sugarcane production capacity through sustainable land conversion, modern irrigation technologies, and inclusive out-grower participation while ensuring environmental and social safeguards.

The project rationale is grounded in the need to optimize land use, improve sugarcane yields, and support socio-economic development in Mazabuka District. KASCOL’s expansion aligns with the Eighth National Development Plan and Zambia’s Vision 2030, which emphasize agricultural diversification, rural industrialization, and environmental sustainability. A USD 3 million investment will finance land preparation, irrigation infrastructure, crop establishment, and environmental management. The project is expected to commence in Q4 of 2025 following ZEMA approval.