Hola: Fruit processing plant ready for commercial production – KBC

The 200 million shillings Hola integrated fruit processing factory is ready for commissioning and commercial production of mango juice.

The factory plant was set up and would be operated by the Coast Development Authority (CDA).

CDA Board of Director Chairman Kazungu Kambi, Coast Regional Commissioner John Elungata and CDA Managing Director Dr. Mohamed Keinan toured the new facility Thursday ahead of its commissioning.

Kambi said the fruit project has the capacity to process 30 metric tonnes of mangoes a day and has already employed 100 mango collectors serving the plant.

He said the upgrading of the fruit processing factory will in the long run improve farmers’ livelihoods and also create jobs for locals.

Kambi said the factory is good news for the people of Tana River who grow plenty of mangoes and other fruits but have no viable market for their produce.

The CDA Chair revealed that plans are in top gear in preparations for the official launch of the factory by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Elungata who is also a member of the CDA board of directors said the setting up of the fruit processing plant was a ‘step in the right direction’ and fits well into the government’s big four agenda that includes manufacturing.

The administrator said the venture would be a ‘game changer’ and would boost local farmers’ incomes in the long run.

Dr. Keinan urged local farmers to ensure steady supply of raw materials saying it signals good news for local mango and pineapple farmers.