Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – Ingwebu Breweries, a subsidiary of the Bulawayo City Council (BCC), has adopted modern technology to value-add its beer production, introducing a pasteurised and carbonated product called Cream Ta taa, which has a longer shelf life than its traditional offerings.
This strategic move comes in response to limited market growth caused bythe perishable nature of its conventional beer products, such as Calabash.
Speaking at the inaugural Bulawayo Economic Development Conference (BEDCON) 2025, Ingwebu managing director, Dumisani Mhlanga said the new technology allows the brewery to distribute Cream Ta taa to distant markets previously inaccessible due to spoilage risks.
“Our organization can now take its Cream Ta taa to far areas that were once out of reach with traditional beer packaging. As I speak, the product is already available in Victoria Falls and Beitbridge, with plans underway to expand its market footprint further,” he said.
Mhlanga also told stakeholders that they also diversified into non-alcoholic beverages starting with Maheu, which is being marketed in Bulawayo and neighbouring markets.
“Further, the business has diversified into non-alcoholic beverages, starting with mahewu, which is being marketed in Bulawayo and the neighbouring markets.
“These innovations aim to bridge the competitive gap, broaden the company’s revenue streams, and bolster its economic contribution to Bulawayo and Zimbabwe at large,” he said.
Mhlanga said the conference’s theme, “Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Economic Development”, resonates well with their organization as it has also empowered the City’s residents by allowing them to operate its 45-outlet franchise.
“Through this franchise, Ingwebu Breweries has enabled city entrepreneurs to participate in our supply chain.
“Beyond the franchise, hundreds of private distributors across Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and South, and Midlands are also selling our products, further stimulating local economies.
“In this way, Ingwebu Breweries has contributed to the economic development of the city and Zimbabwe as a whole,”he explained.
Mhlanga said the company is one of the biggest employers in the City, with a workforce of about 400 direct employees and a similar number being employed in its franchised outlets.
“These employees spend most of their earnings in the city, contributing to its development,” he said.
Established in 1913 in Makokoba Township, Ingwebu’s current brewery was constructed by the Bulawayo City Council in 1946.
Initially managed as a council department, the brewery benefited from municipal bylaws that restricted competitors from operating within city limits, ensuring steady revenue for public infrastructure like schools, clinics, and community halls.
New Ziana
