Nestlé invests R124 million to boost cereal production in Zimbabwe
by Kelebogile Matlou
On Monday, Nestlé announced a R124 million investment to expand its cereal manufacturing facility in Harare, Zimbabwe. The investment is aimed at boosting local production capacity by over 35% and supporting domestic and regional markets including Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique.
This expansion forms part of Nestlé’s long-term Africa for Africa strategy, which promotes local manufacturing, sourcing, and talent development to strengthen food systems across Africa. The project includes the installation of a fourth roller dryer for Nestlé CEREVITA, enhancing supply and economic resilience in the Eastern and Southern Africa Region (ESAR).
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“This investment is a clear proof point of our Africa for Africa strategy in action.It reflects how we are embedding our Virtuous Circle model – sourcing from local farmers, investing in local talent, manufacturing locally, and exporting regionally. Zimbabwe is not just a market; it is a valued contributor to a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food system for Africa,” said Nicole Roos, Managing Director and Chairperson of Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region.
Nestlé Zimbabwe, which has operated for over 60 years, is a key contributor to the local economy, employing over 400 people directly and indirectly, and supporting more than 350 local suppliers and smallholder farmers. The company says the new investment will not only grow export and production capabilities but also align with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1 by promoting industrialisation, employment, and food security.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister of Industry and Commerce Hon. N.M. Ndhlovu, praised Nestlé’s role in revitalising Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector, “This momentous occasion signifies yet another milestone in Nestlé’s journey of resilience, growth and development in Zimbabwe. It is not merely an addition to their impressive infrastructure, but a testament to the company’s enduring commitment to Zimbabwe.”
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Khaled Ramadan, Managing Director of Nestlé East Africa, emphasised the regional value of the investment: “Our brands, like CEREVITA, are trusted by families across Southern Africa. With this expansion, we are better equipped to meet rising demand while contributing to stronger local economies, sustainable agriculture, and improved livelihoods,”he said.
Nestlé’s Harare facility is one of few cereal manufacturing plants of its kind in the region and is a pillar of the company’s broader R710 million programme to scale cereal and coffee production across ESAR. The factory was recently recognised as First Runner-Up for Manufacturing Exporter of the Year 2025 by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce, highlighting its contribution to trade and development.
Nestlé is actively involved in youth empowerment through graduate trainee and technical training programmes. Its sustainability approach includes local sourcing, water and energy efficiency, and responsible waste management, notably through an industrial water treatment plant. Nestlé said reinforces its commitment to Zimbabwe and Africa, helping to build a more resilient, inclusive, and integrated food ecosystem across the continent.
