South African sugar producer, Illovo, has invested US$226 million in a sugar plantation project in Zambia.

BuaNews reports the project is situated in Mazabuka, outside the capital Lusaka.

Speaking at the launch of the project, South African president, Jaco Zuma, said: "There is no doubt that the company's expansion has had a positive development in the economic development of Zambia through foreign exchange earnings and provision of sustainable and decent employment."