Zambia Sugar CEO Mr. Oswald Magwenzi was among the continent’s producers that represented Africa’s potential and shared the company’s vision at the recently held 34th International Sugar Organisation (ISO) Conference in London.

At the conference, Mr. Magwenzi was proud to share that Zambia Sugar was targeting to increase its annual production from 400,000 to 500,000 tonnes in the next three to five years leveraging the company’s strong market position, robust distribution network, a firm commitment to workplace safety.

He explained how significant productivity gains have been achieved through modernised farming systems and investments in efficient irrigation technologies such as drip irrigation and Synergistic Surface Irrigation and Drainage (SSID).

Mr. Magwenzi highlighted ongoing climate-resilience investments, including upgraded irrigation systems, enhanced water monitoring, improved cane varieties, satellite-based weather forecasting, and expanded use of renewable energy, particularly cogeneration using waste from sugar production and solar.

He also presented the Twazabuka Project, a multi-million-dollar investment in a state-of-the-art customer service facility designed to support flexible, year-round delivery to customers.

Held under the theme “Sugar – So Much More than a Sweetener”, the event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders to explore emerging trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the sugar sector.

Mr. Magwenzi also highlighted the company’s diversification plans, which include entry into power generation and exploring opportunities in fuel ethanol and specialty chemicals such as furfural.

Representation from the Zambian government to the meeting included Her Excellency Ms. Macenje Mazoka, High Commissioner of the Republic of Zambia to the United Kingdom, and Ms. Yvonne Zulu, the First Secretary (Trade) from the Zambia High Commission in London, it was wonderful to have their representation at this industry event.

The International Sugar Organisation hosts its conference annually to deepen understanding of the global sugar market and its challenges. Since inception in 1991, these conferences have evolved into major industry events, providing valuable insights and serving as a platform for farmers, policymakers, financiers, industry players, and the media to engage and collaborate.