Business Reporter
President Mnangagwa has today toured and commissioned the Marula/Mapfura Processing and Value Addition Plant at Rutenga Growth point in Mwenezi saying that the occasion was a momentous one for Masvingo Province and the country as a whole.
Speaking during the occasion, the President said that the establishment of the factory was in line with Government’s thrust for development of rural industry systems and infrastructure.
“It is with great pleasure and honour for me to address you today as I officially commission the Mapfura /Marula Value Addition Factory here in Rutenga in the District of Mwenezi. This is indeed a momentous occasion for the Mwenezi community, Masvingo Province and Zimbabwe as a whole, as we continue to witness the establishment of industries in our rural areas.
“These initiatives are in line with my Government’s thrust for the development of rural industry systems and infrastructure,” said the President.
President Mnangagwa said the commissioned factory has the capacity to produce 1000 kg of Mapfura per hour or 75 000 litres of concentrated Mapfura juice per month. He added that at its peak, the factory could realise over ZWL$114 million in earnings from Mapfura processing only. The President said during off season, the factory can also process other fruits such as oranges, tomatoes and water melons.
President Mnangagwa further commented the National Bio Technology Authority for setting up the factory in Rutenga and said it will benefit the local community and the nation as a whole. He added that the establishment of the factory was in sync with Government’s vision of a prosperous and empowered upper middle income economy by 2030.
The President said the factory will bring sustainable development and employment to Mwenezi District. He further said that the expected infrastructure development such as road networks, modern housing and other social amenities will see overall increased quality of life for the people of Mwenezi.
The President was accompanied by his deputy .Vice President Chiwenga, Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Professor Amon Murwira and several other Cabinet ministers.
