The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) has officially entered the retail sector with the opening of a supermarket and bakery at ZAF Lusaka Base, as part of a broader initiative to establish similar facilities across all ZAF bases countrywide.
The project was launched by Minister of Defence, Ambrose Lufuma, who commended the ZAF Command for its innovative approach. Mr. Lufuma noted that the investment aligns with the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Zambians.
He further stated that the initiative is in direct response to President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for the Zambia Defence Force to participate in national food security efforts.
Mr. Lufuma highlighted the Air Force’s significant agricultural efforts, with extensive crop production underway at ZAF farms in Chisamba, Mumbwa, Lufwanyama, and Mbala. He expressed optimism that the large-scale maize planting by the Defence Force would contribute to reducing the price of mealie meal, making maize more readily available on the market.
Meanwhile, ZAF Commander, Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni, said the supermarket will serve ZAF personnel, their families, and the surrounding Lusaka Base community by providing access to affordable, quality goods.
Lt Gen Nyoni added that the initiative will raise morale among ZAF personnel, who will no longer need to travel long distances for basic necessities.
ZAF Lusaka Station Commander, Colonel Joseph Phiri, thanked the Command for revamping the supermarket, which had remained in a dilapidated state for many years. Col Phiri also noted that the Lusaka Base had benefitted from various other Command-led initiatives aimed at improving welfare and operational readiness.
