Belarusian Bellakt plans to produce infant formula in Zimbabwe

Prospects for cooperation in baby nutrition were discussed in a meeting between Grodno Oblast senior officials and a delegation of Zimbabwe headed by First Lady of Zimbabwe Auxillia Mnangagwa, BelTA has learned.

"We discussed various options for cooperation between Grodno Oblast and Zimbabwe. Mrs Auxillia Mnangagwa pays a lot of attention to the health of women and the organization of children's health. This means good nutrition and access to medical care. Therefore, the production of baby food is, probably, one of the priorities of her visit," Grodno Oblast governor Vladimir Karanik said.

Commenting on the possibilities of cooperation, he said that "at the first stage, it can be the supply of ready-made baby food with the subsequent transfer of some technological operations to Zimbabwe and then the building of a full-fledged manufacturing facility."

"We can fully satisfy Zimbabwe's needs in baby food. The capacities of Bellakt are enough for that. Given the geographical location of Zimbabwe, active interaction with its neighbors, it is proposed to consider the possibility of joint production, which will cover not only the needs of Zimbabwe, but also other African countries. Of course, this project requires elaboration, analysis of both the raw material zone and its economic efficiency. I know that there will be an exhibition in Zimbabwe, where representatives of Bellakt plan to take part. This event will help the Belarusian company to continue the negotiations. I am sure that Bellakt products will be present in Zimbabwe. The timeframe and the form (as a finished product supplied from Volkovysk, or as a product manufactured in Zimbabwe using our company's technology) is a matter of negotiation and time,” Vladimir Karanik said.

In turn, Auxillia Mnangagwa said that she was impressed with her visit to Bellakt. “I am very glad I have visited the company. We learned that the company produces baby food for children from 0 to 3 years old. We want to establish cooperation with the company to consider the expansion of its production, and launching its production in Zimbabwe. This would contribute to the development of our country,” she said.

“Zimbabwe is located in the center of the Southern African region. The countries around us could also benefit from such cooperation. Both mothers and women in our country would also welcome such cooperation. It is very important when a child's health can be ensured from the earliest days,” she said.