Adapted from an article by Africa Press.
Eswatini’s meat industry is witnessing a significant transformation as Inyatsi Group makes a substantial investment in upgrading Eswatini Meat Industries, also known as Embiveni. The company has injected E350 million into enhancing infrastructure and modernizing processes, aiming to regain its position in the international market.
This major upgrade comes in the wake of Inyatsi Group Holdings’ acquisition of Embiveni. Over the past year, the group has focused on revitalizing the company, turning it into a powerhouse in the meat processing sector. The comprehensive investment includes the establishment of three new meat plazas in Matsapha, Nhlangano, and Mbabane and a complete overhaul of the factory to align with the standards of first-world countries.
Modernizing Infrastructure to Boost Production and Quality
Embiveni faced challenges with outdated equipment and declining production outputs that jeopardized its reputation. The recent upgrades introduced state-of-the-art machinery, which not only expands the range of products but also significantly enhances quality control. With these improvements, Embiveni is now positioned to meet the standards required by international markets, including those in Taiwan, Norway, Mozambique, the United Kingdom, and other parts of Europe.
The modernization efforts have also led to an increase in the company’s slaughter capacity, which has now tripled from less than 100 to 300 cattle per week. This development allows Embiveni to better serve both domestic and export markets, making it one of the three companies in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region qualified to export meat to the European Union.
Empowering Local Farmers and Strengthening the Value Chain
A core part of Inyatsi Group’s strategy is to empower local farmers and stakeholders in the pork industry value chain. Through the Embiveni Foundation, the company is committed to offering training and knowledge-sharing sessions to help Eswatini cattle farmers meet international standards. This initiative is designed to optimize cattle growth and quality, ensuring that local farmers can compete in the global market.
The company is actively seeking partnerships with indigenous farmers and encouraging them to sell their cattle to Embiveni. These efforts not only enhance the supply chain but also provide economic opportunities for local communities. The foundation’s training programs help farmers align with market demands, improving their cattle’s readiness for slaughter and ensuring consistent quality for export.
Expanding Market Presence and Creating Employment
Looking to the future, Embiveni plans to continue expanding its market footprint by opening more shops in key towns across Eswatini. This expansion aims to create job opportunities in local communities, directly employing 350 people and indirectly impacting over 30,500 lives. As Embiveni solidifies its position as a premier meat processor, it remains committed to excellence and upholding international standards in line with the country’s economic development goals.
The substantial investment by Inyatsi Group in Embiveni marks a turning point for Eswatini’s meat industry, driving growth, enhancing quality, and fostering sustainable economic development. With continued strategic foresight and community involvement, the future looks promising for both Embiveni and Eswatini’s agribusiness sector.