AgDevCo has officially announced its exit from Saise Farming Enterprises through a strategic equity sale to Buya Bamba, a prominent Zambian company specializing in potato production. This transition marks a significant milestone for both organizations and the broader agricultural landscape in Zambia.
Saise Farming Enterprises was established in 2016 as a specialized potato seed farm, a collaborative effort involving AgDevCo, Buya Bamba, and its managing partners. Since its inception, Saise has played a pivotal role in advancing Zambia’s potato sector by focusing on the production of high-quality, early-generation seed potatoes. These seed potatoes are meticulously selected to thrive in Zambia’s unique climate and are cultivated under a licensing agreement with Buya Bamba.
Located in Mbala, Northern Zambia, Saise operates on an impressive 285 hectares of irrigated land. The farm’s seed potatoes are multiplied through a network of local growers, thereby reaching a substantial portion of the country’s potato farming community. Saise has been instrumental in enhancing seed availability, improving crop yields, and establishing a dependable local source of potato seed for Zambia. Furthermore, the farm has contributed significantly to the local economy by creating much-needed formal employment opportunities in Northern Zambia.
Sean Carey, the South Region managing director at AgDevCo, expressed confidence in the future of Saise under Buya Bamba’s stewardship. “Saise is in excellent hands with Buya Bamba, our partner in the venture from the start. We are grateful for the commitment from our managing partners who have helped build Saise into what it is today. As a proudly Zambian company, Buya Bamba is well-positioned to continue growing Zambia’s potato industry,” he stated.
Anthony Barker, managing director of Buya Bamba, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the bright future of Zambia’s potato industry. “The future of Zambia’s potato industry is bright, and this acquisition further strengthens the Zambian potato value chain. Buya Bamba appreciates the effort from AgDevCo to jointly lead the development of Saise and to take on the early-stage investment risk associated with this successful greenfield project,” he remarked.
This acquisition not only solidifies Buya Bamba’s position in the market but also reflects a commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing the overall productivity of Zambia’s potato sector.
