National Foods Limited, a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s food production sector and a vital arm of Innscor Africa Limited, has elevated its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts to remarkable levels in 2024. The company’s initiatives reflect its commitment to enhancing lives, building sustainable communities, and addressing critical societal needs.
A Year of Significant Contributions
In 2024, National Foods allocated USD 301,504 to CSR activities, supporting 49 centers across Zimbabwe’s ten provinces. These centers include orphanages, schools, hospitals, wildlife conservation projects, and organizations focused on vulnerable women and children. Of the 49 centers, 45 were institutions serving vulnerable populations, to which National Foods provided essential food supplies on a monthly basis .
Empowering Youth Through Agriculture
As part of its mission to foster economic empowerment, National Foods trained 750 young individuals in poultry and piggery farming across three districts in Matabeleland: Bulilima, Nkayi North, and Matobo. These programs not only impart technical skills but also aim to reduce youth unemployment and tackle issues such as drug abuse by engaging young people in productive and income-generating activities .
Supporting Education and Environmental Awareness
National Foods has also shown a strong commitment to education and environmental sustainability. It sponsors the National Foods Scholarship Scheme, benefiting students across the country. Additionally, it actively promotes environmental conservation by sponsoring cleanup initiatives in Victoria Falls and collaborating with schools through its Pristine Junior Eco-Warriors program. These initiatives foster a culture of responsibility among Zimbabwe’s younger generation .
Women’s Football and Sports Development
Recognizing the transformative power of sports, National Foods invested in the Northern Region Women Football League (NRWFL), facilitating a three-week football training camp for 82 girls aged 15-20. This initiative highlights the company’s dedication to promoting gender equality and creating opportunities for young women to excel .
Animal Welfare Initiatives
National Foods extends its CSR efforts to animal welfare, donating feed to six centers, including the Zimbabwe National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ZNSPCA) and Bally Vaughan Game Park. These contributions help safeguard the welfare of animals and support the organizations dedicated to their care .
Looking Ahead
National Foods Limited’s CSR efforts reflect a holistic approach to community engagement. By addressing diverse needs—ranging from food security and education to environmental conservation and sports development—the company is setting a high standard for corporate responsibility in Zimbabwe. Through sustained investments and impactful programs, National Foods continues to uplift communities, create opportunities, and foster hope for a brighter future.
