Dar es Salaam. Tanzanian billionaire Mohammed Dewji is investing $50 million into a new soft drinks manufacturing facility in Mombasa, Kenya, as MeTL Group seeks to expand its presence in Africa’s burgeoning beverage industry. This investment is a significant step as the company aims to capture a larger share of the market.
The new plant, to be established by MeTL Group, will manufacture the company’s flagship beverages, including Mo Cola, Mo Xtra, and Mo Malto. With a focus on local production, this initiative aims to cater to the increasing demand for soft drinks in the region.
As reported by Kenya’s Business Daily, MeTL intends to market a 300-millilitre bottle of Mo Cola for approximately 15 Kenyan shillings, significantly lower than competing products that sell for around 40 shillings. This strategic pricing positions the brand as an accessible option for the mass market.
According to Dewji, the project is currently in the planning phase, with construction potentially commencing within the next year. Additionally, MeTL is progressing with plans for a manufacturing plant in Uganda, further demonstrating its commitment to regional expansion.
MeTL’s beverage offerings are already available in Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, underscoring the company’s expanding regional presence and ambitions within Africa’s consumer goods market.
Key Takeaways
- Mohammed Dewji is investing $50 million in a soft drinks plant in Mombasa, Kenya.
- The facility will produce beverages like Mo Cola, Mo Xtra, and Mo Malto.
- MeTL Group aims to price Mo Cola competitively at 15 Kenyan shillings.
- The project is in the planning stages, with construction expected in the next 12 months.
- MeTL is also developing a manufacturing site in Uganda.
- The company’s products are already distributed across several East and Southern African nations.
FAQ
What beverages will the new plant produce?
The new facility will manufacture MeTL’s flagship drinks, including Mo Cola, Mo Xtra, and Mo Malto.
How much will Mo Cola cost?
Mo Cola is expected to be priced at around 15 Kenyan shillings for a 300-millilitre bottle.
When will construction of the plant begin?
Construction is anticipated to start within the next 12 months, pending the planning phase completion.
In which countries are MeTL’s beverages currently available?
MeTL’s products are sold in Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This investment in expanding beverage production not only reflects MeTL’s growth ambitions but also highlights the increasing demand for affordable soft drink options in the region. As the project progresses, it is poised to contribute significantly to the local economy and the broader beverage market in East Africa.
