Nestlé Zimbabwe boosts breakfast cereal production with US$7m investment

By Agencies

HARARE: Nestlé Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to local manufacturing and nutrition with a US$7 million investment aimed at strengthening the production and availability of its popular breakfast cereal, CEREVITA.

The investment, which includes the commissioning of a new Roller Drier 4 unit, has already boosted production capacity by more than 35%, improving supply across Zimbabwe and positioning the country as a regional hub for cereal exports.

The initiative forms part of Nestlé’s broader purpose “to unlock the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come.”

It has already started delivering tangible benefits, increasing access to affordable nutrition while driving local employment and supplier inclusion.

CEREVITA, one of Nestlé’s most recognizable brands in Southern Africa, holds a special place on Zimbabwean breakfast tables thanks to its distinctive toasted aroma and flavour.

Made from whole grains that retain the bran, germ, and endosperm, the cereal is naturally rich in fibre, essential fats, antioxidants, magnesium, and carbohydrates, nutrients vital for family wellbeing.

“CEREVITA is not just a breakfast cereal, it’s nourishment designed to fuel the whole family,” said Khaled Ramadan, Managing Director for Nestlé’s East Africa and Greater Zambezi operations.

The cereal is fortified with GRAINSMART™, a proprietary blend of iron, vitamins, and minerals that supports energy release throughout the day. This innovation makes CEREVITA both a nutritious and convenient breakfast choice for children and adults alike.

Currently, CEREVITA is available in five variants, Corn & Wheat, Corn & Banana, Corn, Cocoa & Malt, Flakes with Milk, and Corn & Sorghum, offered in 500g sachets and 750g bag-in-box packs.

These varieties cater to diverse consumer preferences while promoting the use of locally sourced grains.

According to Nicole Roos, Managing Director and Chairperson of Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region, the investment represents much more than infrastructure expansion.

“It’s about long-term nourishment, empowerment, and pride in a product that reflects our local taste, our local grain, and our local spirit,” he said.

Through its Virtuous Circle model, Nestlé Zimbabwe continues to deepen its local partnerships, engaging over 350 suppliers and 18 local farmers, while supporting 149 full-time employees, 268 casual workers, and eight graduate trainees annually.

The model fosters sustainable livelihoods, value chain inclusion, and community development.