From Waste to Global Success: Transforming Indigenous Fruit into Artisanal Delights

In the heart of Southern Africa, a remarkable journey unfolds, embodying circular economy principles and reflecting the transformative power of entrepreneurship. MaungoCraft , a small yet dynamic business, has become a shining example of what can be achieved with strong leadership and the right support.

Founded in Botswana in 2017, Maungo Craft emerged from humble beginnings, fuelled by a passion for culinary creativity and a commitment to sustainability. Central to the success of the business was the indigenous marula fruit combined with ingenuity and knowledge gained from the virtual halls of “YouTube University”.

Maungo Craft began selling its first artisanal creations at local farmers' markets, the perfect platform to showcase the company’s new products. However, this was more than a simple business enterprise. The founders wanted to embrace the principles of a circular economy, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency through the continuous use, regeneration, and recycling of products and materials. So, they chose to collaborate with local farmers and suppliers, sourcing their ingredients from nearby farms and marula oil producers. In this way, they ensured freshness and quality while actively contributing to the reduction of fruit waste and the growth of 1,000 women small-scale farmers.

Recognizing the immense potential of Maungo Craft, NPAB , a Botswana-based business support partner of the DAI-managed Trade Forward Southern Africa (TFSA) program funded by Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office , stepped up. NPAB provided enhancing food safety training, a critical aspect of expanding into international markets. This empowered Maungo Craft to attain Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) certification which meant the company could now tap into international markets. TFSA also provided resources and guidance and expanded product testing, digital marketing collateral, and record keeping.

In 2022, Maungo Craft successfully exported 20% of its sauces, syrups, and preserves to the United States, generating approximately $7,360 in sales, with 60% predicted for 2023. Recently, their products were featured on CNN Inside Africa and endorsed by Martha Stewart. The company’s products can be found on Amazon and are in the process of closing a deal with a large retailer with over 400 retail outlets across the US. Regionally, they have made great strides with well-established retail chain stores across Southern Africa and supplying hospitality businesses such as luxury camps and wilderness safaris.

Today, Maungo Craft stands as a testament to the power of circular economy principles and the positive impact of trade and development programs. Its story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and an example of how a small idea can blossom into a thriving enterprise, enriching lives and communities along the way.

Trade Forward Southern Africa British High Commission Pretoria

#Entrepreneurship #TradeForward #CircularEconomy

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