Funded with K15,000 to boost operations and production of mushroom, Mansa Mushroom has expanded the production of the ‘Oyster Mushroom’ locally known ‘Ichibengele’ which they now supply every Tuesday and Friday to Multinational corporations such as Choppies, local businesses, lodges, restaurants and households.
Mansa Mushroom was one of the 140 cooperatives that received grants from the 2024 Mansa Central Constituency Development Fund.
The Company Director, Mr. Danny Chama Chilufya says Mansa Mushroom has recruited 5 workers who support the operations of the company with the expanded production operations as a result of financial boost
“When we started in 2020, the biggest challenge we faced was convincing people that our product was safe for consumption. Because of the low sales many people in the company lost hope and some started to leave which affected our production and income. But we applied for CDF grant and were given K15,000 which helped us to boost our production and employ more people”, he added.
Mr. Chilufya further said that the cooperative has not yet reached their intended goal but that the membership remains encouraged by the growth potential of the company because they are the only business in Mansa District that produce and supply mushrooms throughout the year.
“Residents of Mansa District and Luapula Province should buy mushrooms from us and eat because of their immunity boosting benefits. Mushrooms can also help to reduce the chances of getting prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women”, said Mr. Chilufya
The cooperative hopes to recruit up to 15 people at their full operational capacity and supply their Oyster Mushrooms to the whole province and outside.
