HARARE — Nestlé has invested $7 million to expand its cereal manufacturing facility in Harare, a move set to increase production capacity by more than 35 percent and solidify Zimbabwe’s position as a strategic cereal hub for Eastern and Southern Africa.
The investment includes the installation of a fourth roller dryer at the Harare plant, enabling increased supply of Nestlé CEREVITA to local markets and exports to countries such as Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. The project was carried out using Zimbabwean contractors, engineers, and project managers.
“This investment is a clear proof point of our Africa for Africa strategy in action,” said Nicole Roos, managing director and chairperson of Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region. “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.”
Nestlé Zimbabwe, which has operated for over 60 years, employs more than 400 people directly and indirectly and works with over 350 local suppliers and 18 smallholder farmers. The expansion supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1, aimed at promoting industrialization, job creation, and food security.
“This momentous occasion signifies yet another milestone in Nestlé’s journey of resilience, growth and development in Zimbabwe,” said Industry and Commerce Minister Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu at the commissioning ceremony.
“It is not merely an addition to their impressive infrastructure, but a testament to the company’s enduring commitment to Zimbabwe.”
Khaled Ramadan, Nestlé East Africa managing director, emphasized the regional importance of the project: “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.”
The Harare facility is one of the few cereal manufacturing plants of its kind in the region and is part of Nestlé’s $40 million investment program to grow cereal and coffee production across Eastern and Southern Africa. The plant was recently recognized as First Runner-Up for Manufacturing Exporter of the Year 2025 by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce.
Beyond manufacturing, Nestlé continues to invest in skills development through graduate trainee and technical training programs. Its sustainability focus includes responsible water and energy use, local sourcing, and waste management — including the use of an industrial water treatment plant.
“This milestone affirms Zimbabwe’s position as a manufacturing and export hub for NESTLÉ CEREVITA and other cereal brands in East and Southern Africa,” Roos said. “The new equipment enables Nestlé Zimbabwe to respond faster to market demands while expanding its reach in local and regional markets.”
The expansion reinforces Nestlé’s long-term commitment to Zimbabwe and its strategy of building more self-reliant food systems across the continent through local investment and regional integration.
