Kalene Hills Fruit Factory will resume fruit processing operations by the end of this month, bringing hope to local farmers and consumers alike.
In an exclusive interview, Acting General Manager Kelvin Musonda confirmed the factory’s imminent restart. The factory will focus on processing pineapples, a seasonal fruit that requires timely harvesting and processing.
“We started a trial run for pineapple juice production last September and followed up with a commercial production in February this year,” Musonda explained. “We’re committed to ensuring that our products meet the highest quality standards before they hit the market.”
While the factory has yet to operationalise its out-grower scheme fully, it is currently purchasing pineapples directly from farmers. Musonda revealed that its database includes approximately 6,000 farmers, underscoring the potential impact of the factory on local agriculture.
The factory’s processing capacity is impressive, with a potential to handle 3 tons of fruit per hour. However, the seasonal nature of pineapples poses a significant challenge, as the factory’s operations are contingent on the availability of the fruit.
As the factory gears up for production, it is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the local economy, create jobs, and contribute to the country’s agricultural sector
