Nestlé Zimbabwe last week commissioned its fourth Roller Dryer (RD4) at its Southerton Factory in Harare, marking a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to local industrial development, economic resilience, and regional food security. The $7 million investment increases cereal production capacity by 35%, further solidifying Zimbabwe’s role as the manufacturing and export hub for NESTLÉ CEREVITA in East and Southern Africa.
By Plot Mhako
The commissioning event was attended by key government officials, including the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Hon. N. M. Ndhlovu and representatives from the Swiss Embassy, alongside Nestlé executives, business partners, and stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Ndhlovu hailed Nestlé’s enduring presence and consistent investments in Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector. “This milestone is not merely about infrastructure—it is a testament to Nestlé’s confidence in Zimbabwe’s future and our shared vision for sustainable industrial growth,” he said.
Nestlé has invested over $40 million in Zimbabwe over the past decade. The RD4 commissioning aligns with the company’s “Africa for Africa” strategy, which emphasizes local value chains, job creation, skills development, and sustainable growth. The project was executed using local engineers, project managers, and contractors, demonstrating confidence in Zimbabwean expertise and capability.
Nicole Roos, Nestlé’s Market Head for the East and Southern Africa Region, highlighted the strategic value of Zimbabwe within the company’s regional operations. Khaled Ramadan, Cluster Head for Greater Zambezi, added, “The RD4 investment is not just about increasing capacity—it’s about enhancing local supply chain resilience, enabling faster market response, and driving export growth.”
CEREVITA, enriched with GRAIN SMART for added nutritional value, remains a flagship product whose consistent availability and quality have earned it regional popularity. The RD4 enables Nestlé to scale production to meet rising demand in countries like Mozambique, Zambia, and Malawi.”
The initiative supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1, particularly the Industrial Reconstruction and Growth Plan. Nestlé Zimbabwe now directly employs 149 staff, engages 268 casual workers, and trains an average of eight graduate interns annually. The company sources from over 350 local suppliers and 18 farmers, reinforcing strong local economic participation.
Notably, Nestlé Zimbabwe was also recognized as the 1st Runner-Up in the Manufacturing Exporter of the Year 2025 category by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce.
As the RD4 project powers forward, it not only enhances cereal output but also embodies a shared vision of inclusive growth, sustainability, and industrial excellence.
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