Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe is on track to achieve cooking oil self-sufficiency, thanks to increased investments in soya bean, sunflower, and cotton seed production.
A Government-led tour of Surface Wilmar and Olivine Industries, two of the country’s largest cooking oil manufacturers, revealed significant progress in the sector.
Data shared during the tour showed that the availability of locally produced cooking oil has risen from just 20% in 2018 to over 80% in 2024. This shift reflects the success of Government initiatives aimed at boosting local crop production and reducing reliance on imported crude oil.
Acting CEO of Surface Wilmar and Olivine Industries, Sylvester Dendere highlighted the sector’s resilience and commitment to growth.
“The increased presence of locally produced cooking oil on retail shelves is a clear indicator of progress. Despite challenges, we remain focused on increasing production and finding solutions to constraints. This collaboration with the Government gives us a platform to chart a path forward and achieve our goals,” he said.
While the industry continues to grapple with the high costs of crude oil imports, the permanent secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, emphasized the need to increase domestic production of key raw materials.
He noted that by incentivizing soya bean, sunflower, and cotton seed farmers, the Government aims to enhance cooking oil production and strengthen food security.
“This fact-finding mission is critical as it provides insight into the current situation. To fully capitalize on these gains, we must prioritize maximizing land utilization in agriculture. Supporting farmers through incentives is key to sustaining growth and reducing import dependency,” he said.
Industry players and Government officials resolved to continue working together to create policies that lower production costs and foster a competitive environment.
Zimbabwe’s drive toward self-sufficiency in cooking oil production aligns with broader efforts to improve agricultural output, reduce imports, and bolster the local economy. With continued investments and support for farmers, the country is poised to achieve its goal of complete cooking oil independence.
