Nestlé Zimbabwe boosts production capacity with US$7M investment
New US$7M investment in Nestlé’s Harare factory expected to drive food security, job creation, and regional exports.
ZIMBABWE – Nestlé Zimbabwe has commissioned a fourth roller dryer at its Harare manufacturing facility, a strategic investment that is set to increase cereal production by over 35%.
This expansion supports the country’s Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1, which aim to advance industrialization, create employment opportunities, and enhance food security.
The installation will significantly boost the production capacity of Nestlé CEREVITA, enabling the company to meet the rising demand in both local and regional markets, including Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique.
Currently, Nestlé Zimbabwe’s cereal production averages 730 tonnes monthly, with expectations for a substantial increase following this infrastructure upgrade.
During the commissioning ceremony, Nicole Roos, Managing Director and Chairperson of Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region (ESAR), highlighted the importance of the investment to the company’s long-term vision.
“This expansion is a clear proof point of our Africa for Africa strategy,” she said. “By sourcing from local farmers, investing in local talent, and manufacturing locally, we are creating a virtuous circle that benefits communities, strengthens economies, and builds a more resilient food system for Africa.”
Nestlé Zimbabwe has operated in the country for over 60 years, employing more than 400 people directly and indirectly. The company also works with over 350 local suppliers and 18 smallholder farmers, reinforcing its commitment to supporting local value chains.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, Hon. N.M. Ndhlovu, commended Nestlé for its sustained contributions to the local manufacturing sector.
“Today’s commissioning is not just an addition to Nestlé’s impressive infrastructure; it is a testament to the company’s resilience and dedication to Zimbabwe’s growth,” said Ndhlovu. “This investment will have far-reaching benefits for our economy, from job creation to increased exports.”
The Harare plant is among a few cereal production facilities of its kind in the region and forms part of Nestlé’s broader US$40 million investment program to scale up cereal and coffee production in ESAR.
The factory’s performance was recently acknowledged when it was named First Runner-Up for Manufacturing Exporter of the Year 2025 by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce, underscoring its role in regional trade and development.
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