By Rudo Saungweme

In line with Zimbabwe’s ‘open for business mantra,’ Lowveld Cane Millers (Pvt) Ltd, a South African based company is set to establish an integrated sugar production, processing and refining plant in Zimbabwe.

A source who spoke to Harare Post today on condition of anonymity revealed that “the sugar processing plant which has an estimated value of US$ 713 million is expected to employ 1 000 direct and 20 000 indirect workers.

“The company registration is undergoing procedures being facilitated by a local subsidiary of the South African, Lowveld Cane Millers (Pvt) Ltd,” he said.

However, the source did not disclose the name of the SA, Lowveld Cane Millers local subsidiary company.

The source revealed that about 70 000 hectares of land is needed to set up this facility, whose projected output is estimated to be three times the current processing capacity of local sugar producer, Tongaat Hulletts, adding that a possible site was located in Chiredzi district.

“The site for the location which is about 70 000 hectares was located in Chiredzi district, with the input of Government officials and the local community.

“The location is said to be the most suitable one because of the ready availability of irrigation water from Tugwi-Mukosi, Lake Mtirikwi, Manjirenji, Manyuchi and Runde-Tende dams,” revealed the source.

This development fulfils the engagement and re-engagement efforts of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. More companies are now coming in the country for investment.