Celebrating Five Years of Legacy
.... Phiri reflects on the company’s promising future, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable investment and the exploration of alternative power solutions for continued success.
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia – (22-12-2024) – Legacy Manufacturers Limited marked its fifth anniversary with a grand celebration that brought together key stakeholders, employees, and loyal customers.
The event, held in Lusaka, honored the company’s remarkable achievements and growth since its inception in 2019.
Distinguished guests included Prof. Thomson Sinkala as the guest of honor, officials from the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises, ZABS, ZAM, board members, and employees of Legacy Manufacturers Ltd.
Speaking at the event, CEO Kumbukilani Phiri reflected on the company’s journey, recalling its beginnings as a mere idea and the significant challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The installation of our equipment coincided with the onset of COVID-19 in 2020. Engineers couldn’t travel to Zambia to commission the equipment, and borders were closed, making it difficult to source raw materials,” Phiri said.
Despite these hurdles, the company managed to launch operations through resourceful improvisations and support from friends.
Phiri highlighted some of the company’s major accomplishments over the past five years, including launching more than six products sold nationwide, increasing the workforce from 20 employees in 2020 to over 200 in 2024, expanding its network of supplying farmers from 150 to over 3,000, and scaling up production capacity from 100 tons to over 3,500 tons annually.
The company also won two prestigious awards in 2024: Manufacturer of the Year (SME category) from ZAM and Company of the Year under the Quality Awards organized by ZABS and the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry.
The event celebrated the dedication of Legacy’s employees. Honorees included Regina Bwalya (Production Supervisor), Komani Sakala (Provincial Driver), Peter Nsomba (Local Driver), and Jimmy Chileshe (Security Guard).
Long-serving employees, including Andrew Makaka, Mathew Sikazwe, Cynthia Mukuka, and Pauline Mumba, were also recognized.
Awards such as Manager of the Year and Employee of the Year further highlighted Legacy’s culture of excellence, with Taso Zulu named Manager of the Year and Apiat Chimbalo recognized as Employee of the Year.
Phiri expressed optimism about the company’s future, emphasizing a focus on expanding its product line, increasing market presence, and investing in sustainable power solutions.
“Our achievements portray who we are—a people determined to leave a legacy in Zambia’s manufacturing industry,” he said.
The celebration also included a beauty pageant, showcasing talent and elegance. Rose Mutelo was crowned first place, with Grace Mulenga taking second and Edinah Bwalya coming in third.
Agnes Zalu, Jean Nkhata, and Lillian Mutuma also participated, impressing attendees with their poise and confidence. The pageant highlighted Legacy’s engagement with the community and its efforts to promote local talent.
Phiri expressed optimism about the company’s future, emphasizing a focus on expanding its product line, increasing market presence, and investing in sustainable power solutions.
“Our achievements portray who we are—a people determined to leave a legacy in Zambia’s manufacturing industry,” he said.
The event concluded with electrifying performances by renowned musicians, including the Sakala Brothers and Ma Africa, leaving attendees with lasting memories.
As Legacy Manufacturers Ltd celebrates five years of resilience and innovation, it looks forward to an even brighter future, leaving an indelible mark on Zambia’s manufacturing industry.
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