IFS Breaks Ground on Community-Driven Poultry Farm in the DRC
IFS has taken another bold step in its commitment to fostering local economic development with the groundbreaking of a new poultry farm in Kapaso, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This initiative, spearheaded by IFS in collaboration with key stakeholders from the Mutanda Mine (Mumi) mine operation, is designed to empower local farmers while strengthening the region’s agricultural supply chain.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by prominent community and mining stakeholders, including Traditional Chief Tshikala; Anaclet (President, Local Development Committee, Mumi); Dr Hugues Munung (Senior Manager, Environment and Community, Mumi); Glory Mulimba (Superintendent, Community Development, Mumi); Nathalie Djumah (Community Superintendent, Mumi); and Florent Sahato (Community Supervisor, Mumi).
Representing IFS were Frank Teeling (Head of Sustainability & Special Projects), Jerry Lubanga (Country Manager, IFS DRC), and Jason Yunnie (Project Manager, IFS Mumi). Both Frank and Jerry addressed attendees, emphasising IFS’s commitment to local economic development and sustainable partnerships.
The poultry farm project is a pivotal component of IFS’s broader commitment to local sourcing and community-driven development. By establishing this initial farm, IFS is not only ensuring food security in the area but also creating an opportunity for local farmers to integrate into a structured supply chain, guaranteeing consistent demand for their produce. The chickens raised at the farm will be directly purchased by IFS, processed, and reintegrated into the supply ecosystem of the Mumi mine, thereby reducing reliance on external suppliers and fostering a more self-sustaining local economy.
“This project is more than just a farm—it’s a symbol of sustainable development and community empowerment,” said an IFS representative. “By working closely with local farmers and community leaders, we are reinforcing our commitment to investing in local economies, creating jobs, and ensuring food security.”
Kapaso marks the beginning of this initiative, but IFS is already exploring further agricultural and agroforestry projects to benefit additional communities such as Kando, Kaindu, and Kinsenda. These developments align with IFS’s vision of creating self-sustaining ecosystems that benefit both the communities in which they operate and the mining industry that relies on a stable and responsible supply chain.
As IFS continues to drive impact beyond traditional facilities services, the Kapaso poultry farm represents a model of how businesses and communities can work hand in hand to build a more sustainable future.
