by Ncaba Ntshakala and Siphesihle Dlamini
His Majesty King Mswati III has lauded the significant E350 million investment by Eswatini Meat Industries (Embiveni), marking a transformative milestone for the company, which has now become a first-world meat factory.
The praise came during the King’s tour of the EMI and Infracast factories, both subsidiaries of Inyatsi Group Holdings on Monday.
The King highlighted the impressive progress made by Eswatini Meat Industries, commending the robust development achieved in less than a year since its acquisition by Inyatsi Group Holdings.
“This investment is a testament to the incredible potential and opportunities within our nation’s industries,” His Majesty remarked.
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During the tour, the King expressed his delight with the state-of-the-art facilities and the advancements made under the leadership of Inyatsi Group Holdings’ Executive Chairman, Michelo Shakantu.
“The transformation of EMI into a world-class meat processing facility is a significant step towards our national development goals,” said the King.
“Such initiatives not only enhance our economic landscape but also create job opportunities and improve the quality of life for our people.”
Inyatsi Group Holdings acquired EMI in 2023 after the previous owners put the company on the market.
Since the acquisition, the group has implemented substantial upgrades and innovations, turning EMI into a leading meat processing factory.
The King’s tour expressed the importance of this development, recognizing it as a pivotal achievement in Eswatini’s industrial sector.
“Seeing the progress and the cutting-edge technology employed here is truly inspiring,” the King noted.
“This factory is now a benchmark for excellence and efficiency in meat processing, and it sets a high standard for other industries in the region.”
The transformation of EMI aligns with Eswatini’s broader economic vision, which is promoting industrial growth and modernization.
The King emphasized the role of such investments in driving the country’s progress and attracting further international interest.
King lauds Inyatsi Group’s collaborative efforts towards factory development
His Majesty King Mswati III has commended the remarkable collaboration between Inyatsi Group Chairman Michelo Shakantu and the dedicated workers at the Eswatini Meat Industries (EMI) and Infracast factories.
During his tour on Monday, the King highlighted the significant strides made through these collaborative efforts, which have notably enhanced the development of these facilities.
“Collaboration is evident here, and it must be applauded as it significantly enhances development,” the King remarked.
His Majesty’s visit was said to highlight the impressive progress EMI has made under the stewardship of Inyatsi Group Holdings, which has transformed it into a state-of-the-art meat processing facility.
EMI, synonymous with quality meat products in Eswatini and globally, is driven by a bold vision to become Africa’s leading integrated business partner in the food industry.
Since its acquisition by Inyatsi Group Holdings, the company has undergone a dynamic transformation.
Managing Director Phasika Mhlanga noted last year, during the opening of the second meat plaza in Matsapha, that EMI’s journey is fueled by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a commitment to sustainable growth.
The company, which now employs hundreds of workers, has firmly established itself as Eswatini’s leading meat processing company.
EMI’s focus on producing high-quality beef products has not only solidified its position in the local market but also facilitated its expansion into the European market.
His Majesty was particularly impressed by the world-class export meat factory, now equipped with advanced technology and adhering to stringent quality control measures.
“The factory is a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with advanced technology and strict quality control measures,” the King noted.
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“The standards here ensure that the products meet international criteria, which is evident from EMI’s strong foothold in the European market.”
The King further expressed during his tour that the factory’s efficient processing methods and stringent hygiene practices contribute to the production of top-quality meat products.
His Majesty praised the facility’s adherence to high standards, noting that these practices ensure the company’s products are well-received in international markets.
EMI’s commitment to excellence and innovation, coupled with the robust support from Inyatsi Group Holdings, has positioned it as a leading player in the food industry both locally and internationally.
The King’s visit and subsequent commendation reflected the positive impact of strategic collaboration and investment in advancing Eswatini’s industrial capabilities.
As Eswatini continues to strive for economic development and industrial growth, the success of EMI underlines the importance of collaboration between leadership and the workforce.
The King’s recognition of these efforts serves as an inspiration for other industries in the region, highlighting the transformative power of teamwork and innovation.
When addressing the workers and guests after his tour, King Mswati III emphasized the importance of such collaborative ventures for the nation’s progress.
“The achievements we witness today are a testament to what can be accomplished when leadership and workers come together with a common goal.
Let this be a model for other industries as we continue to build a stronger, more prosperous Eswatini,” he said.
