Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation Plc (ZAFFICO) has partnered with SARO Agro-Industrial Ltd. to make treated poles more accessible to clients.
ZAFFICO’s Head of Commercial, Irene Chipili stated that the partnership allows SARO to provide its customers, particularly farmers, not only with Agro equipment but also with premium, affordable and high quality treated poles suitable for various applications which includes fencing and construction.
Ms. Chipili emphasised that the Corporation recognises Saro’s extensive market network across the country, which will help increase the market share for treated poles.
“Partnering with Saro will enhance ZAFFICO’s revenue base, as we are tapping into Saro’s existing clientele,” she stated.
She mentioned that the initial phase of the partnership is on a pilot basis and poles are now available in Choma, Mkushi, Lusaka, and Kabwe, and plans to expand to other Saro outlets across the country are underway.
Ms. Chipili has encouraged customers to visit Saro’s outlets assuring them that the treated poles provided are of high quality and affordable.
SARO General Manager Herman Rohm expressed confidence in the partnership, stating that it not only brings the product closer to customers but also enhances business for both institutions.
Mr. Rohm highlighted that this partnership is a game changer for both companies, allowing customers who need wooden treated poles to access them in many more locations beyond just the Copperbelt and Lusaka provinces.
“The purpose of this partnership is to generate revenue, which is our projection. We are very confident in the quality of the poles ZAFFICO supplies to us, and we believe our customers will greatly benefit from the reduced distances required to access treated poles,” he said.
To further enhance accessibility to treated poles for its customers, ZAFFICO PLC inaugurated the Lusaka Corporate and Sales Office on Great North Road on December 16, 2024, where pine and eucalyptus wooden treated poles are available for sale. This initiative aligns with the Corporation’s 2024-2028 strategic plan for value addition.
