Pretoria Rekord | 25 July 2023
The investment has empowered individuals with valuable skills and created a sustainable source of income by creating 27 new employment opportunities in Hammanskraal.
Tshwane has welcomed a major boost to job creation in the township of Hammanskraal through a major foreign investor.
Nestlé South Africa has this month made a bold move to invest R79-million in the local economic development of the Hammanskraal region, boasting skill development and job creation in the rural economy in the northern region of Tshwane.
The investment in the area, which was also massively hit by a series of cholera outbreaks recently, has led to the creation of a cutting-edge coffee production plant in Babelegi, providing jobs and skills to the locals.
The plant has already created 27 jobs, with more on the horizon.
Of the 27 employees, 24 are employed in production and three are based in engineering within the plant.
Not only will the community benefit from this venture, but the coffee market within Tshwane will also reap the rewards.
The production plant will oversee the local production of Nescafé coffee mixes with 46% locally sourced ingredients.
Tshwane MMC for economic development Hannes Coetzee said this new production line’s primary goal is to increase employment prospects in the Hammanskraal region.
“Additionally, this is attempting to fulfil market needs and guarantee a consistent supply of coffee mixes.”
Coetzee said Nestlé is one of Tshwane’s key foreign direct investors.
“The company is making significant contributions to the city’s economic growth and development goals.”
Coetzee said this commitment to community upliftment strengthens the community, both economically and through the provision of exceptional products.
“Overall since Nestlé’s arrival they have invested around R400-million in the local economy, resulting in the creation of nearly 300 permanent job opportunities in the region,” Coetzee said.
He said this investment in localising production exemplifies its commitment to building strong partnerships with local communities, fostering economic development, and embracing technological advancements.
“By producing locally, Nestlé aims to streamline supply chain operations, reduce environmental impact, and ensure fresher products for consumers.”
He said the city is appreciative of Nestlé’s contribution to its industrialisation and localisation initiatives.
“We are grateful for their continuous loyalty, commitment and trust in South Africa’s future and the resiliency of Tshwane’s economy,” Coetzee concluded.
Brian Soldaat of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition emphasised the importance of government collaborating with the private sector.
“This investment supports the growth of the local economy by localising production and this sets a positive example for the industry,” Soldaat said.
He said the importance of collaboration with local communities, economic development, and sustainable business practices leads to the growth of the local economy.
“This project has empowered individuals with valuable skills and created a sustainable source of income by creating 27 new employment opportunities in engineering and production.”
Nestlé East and Southern Africa business executive officer Carl Khoury said this manufacturing plant demonstrates its dedication to the local market.
“We take pride in our investment in this production plant as it reflects our dedication to nurturing the potential of the region and contribution to rebuilding the economy.”
Khoury said this marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to meeting local market needs and supporting economic development.
‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’.