By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday, commissioned a new $22.7 million food production plant for National Foods in Harare. The facility is expected to enhance local food security, generate jobs, and support Zimbabwe’s industrial growth.
With exports being earmarked after satisfying the local market, the investment is also envisioned to help in reducing the country’s unsustainable import bill.
During the ceremony, President Mnangagwa highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering the people and fostering economic resilience.
“The new plant demonstrates the commitment by National Foods, to job creation and skills development, which are all vital for inclusive economic growth. At the heart of this project is our ongoing pursuit of food security and improved nutrition,” he said.
The plant is part of Zimbabwe’s efforts to reduce reliance on imported food. President Mnangagwa noted that the country has achieved self-sufficiency in wheat production, a key raw material for pasta manufacturing.
“It is commendable that as a country, we have realised self-sufficiency in the production of wheat, which is a key raw material in the production of pasta. This notwithstanding, our country currently consumes about 5,000 tons of pasta per month, most of which is imported,” he explained.
The new facility showcases the progress of Zimbabwe’s economic and industrial development under the Second Republic. President Mnangagwa described it as a symbol of innovation and technological advancement in the food processing sector.
“This marks a new chapter in the food processing sub sector, driven by innovation, and technology. Well done, congratulations to you all. Makorokoto, Amhlophe. This production facility is a beacon of efforts towards economic development and industrialisation,” he stated.
He urged Zimbabweans to leverage local resources to expand agro-industries through value addition and support for farmers.
“We can harness our own resources, to foster the growth of local agro-industries through value addition and the requisite support to our farmers,” he said.
The President also praised the board and shareholders of National Foods for their confidence in government policies and the conducive business environment. The commissioning included three key projects: an 800-ton-per-month breakfast cereals extrusion plant, a biscuit manufacturing line, and the pasta facility. The breakfast cereals plant, valued at US$7 million, is expected to make a significant contribution to local food processing.
These initiatives are aligned with national development frameworks, including the Zimbabwe Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan, the National Development Strategy, and Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into a middle-income economy.