Effects of the Reopening of Mulungushi Textiles with a Focus on Employment Generation, SME and Farmer Linkages Within the Value Chain, and the Industrial Competitiveness of the Factory in Zambia’s Liberalized Textile Market

This study evaluated the effects of the reopening of Mulungushi Textiles, focusing on employment generation, SME and farmer linkages within the cotton–textile value chain, and competitiveness in Zambia’s liberalized textile market. A descriptive survey employing a mixed-methods approach was used, with 100 participants. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS and Excel, while qualitative data was thematically analyzed. Findings showed positive perceptions of employment creation, with high mean scores for job opportunities (4.10), employment stability (3.75), and skills development (3.85). SME and farmer participation was moderate, with 27.8% always engaged and 33.3% often engaged in value chain activities. The factory was perceived as competitively positioned, with 38.9% rating its pricing and market availability as high and 16.6% as very high, supported by favorable views on quality and accessibility. Key challenges included limited raw materials (33.3%), competition from imports (27.8%), and high production costs (22.2%), alongside policy and infrastructural constraints. The study recommended strengthening value chain linkages, improving access to finance and inputs, enhancing operational efficiency, and addressing policy and infrastructural gaps to support sustainable industrial growth.