Staff Reporter
A state-of-the-art baobab juice manufacturing plant at Mutare Teachers’ College is nearing completion and is expected to be commissioned soon.
This significant development highlights Zimbabwe's dedication to integrating industrial growth with educational innovation, aligning with the nation's strategic objectives for technological and economic advancement.
Mutare’s Provincial Director for Economic Affairs, Munyaradzi Rubaya, reported that the project was between 99 and 100 percent of completion, with only minor details left to address.
“The facility is operational, but we are finalizing some final touches, such as the installation of a power backup generator and paving around the plant to reduce dust. We are also ensuring compliance with all legal standards and health regulations,” explained Rubaya.
The plant, which cost US$126,000 and was imported from China, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including automated filling and capping machines, bottle-blowing equipment, purification systems, and ultra-high-temperature pasteurisation processes.
With a capacity to produce 20 000 litres of juice per hour, the facility will process not only baobab juice but also other fruit juices like loquat, mango, and pineapple, in addition to bottling mineral water.
Economist Hilda Farazhu added that the new plant represents a significant investment in the Manicaland region, leveraging its abundant fruit resources to enhance local industry and promote regional development through value addition.
“The project, which is nearly complete, stands as a testament to Zimbabwe's dedication to both economic growth and environmental sustainability,” said Farazhu.
Meanwhile, Mutare Teachers’ College has a history of engaging in income-generating projects, such as piggery and fishery, and this new venture is expected to set a benchmark for other teacher training institutions in Zimbabwe.
This initiative aligns with the national policy driven by the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science, and Technology Development, which aims to foster a culture of creative thinking and innovation.
