President Mnangagwa to Commission Mutoko Oil Processing Plant

MUTOKO — President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa is expected to commission a new oil processing plant in Mutoko on the 9th of July 2026 in a development that is set to strengthen Zimbabwe's industrialisation drive, expand value addition and create a ready market for oilseed farmers.

The processing facility, situated on the outskirts of Mutoko, is expected to process sunflower, soya bean and cotton seed into refined cooking oil and related products, adding value to agricultural produce while supporting the country's import substitution programme.

The investment comes at a time when Government is accelerating rural industrialisation through the implementation of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), the country's economic blueprint for the 2026-2030 period. NDS2 places emphasis on value addition and beneficiation, industrial growth, food security, employment creation and increased private sector investment as Zimbabwe advances towards the attainment of Vision 2030.

Officials said the plant is expected to source raw materials from farmers in Mashonaland East and neighbouring provinces, providing producers with a dependable local market while improving returns from oilseed production.

The establishment of the facility is also expected to stimulate economic activity through increased demand for transport services, packaging, engineering support and other downstream industries linked to agricultural production.

Provincial leaders have described the project as a significant milestone in the transformation of Mashonaland East into an agro-industrial hub, saying the investment demonstrates growing confidence in Zimbabwe's agriculture-based manufacturing sector.

Farmers in Mutoko have welcomed the development, expressing optimism that access to a nearby processing facility will reduce transport costs and improve profitability by allowing them to market their produce closer to home.

The project is further expected to create employment opportunities for local communities while encouraging increased production of oilseed crops under contract farming arrangements.

Zimbabwe has continued to prioritise domestic production of edible oils as part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on imports, strengthen national food security and increase the contribution of manufacturing to economic growth. Investments in value addition are expected to improve agricultural productivity while retaining more value within the local economy.

During tomorrow's expected commissioning ceremony, President Mnangagwa is anticipated to tour the processing facility, interact with farmers and other stakeholders, and officially commission the plant into operation.

Join our WhatsApp Channel

Be part of a growing community that relies on Dagmedia News for fast, accurate, and credible updates from across Zimbabwe and beyond.

We also offer: Graphic Design, Photography, Web Design, Videography, Concept Development, Idea Generation & Incubation, and Advertising Services.

Click here to subscribe: Follow us on WhatsApp

wa.me/dagmedia.co.zw