South African CEO competing in multi-billion dollar pet food industry

The global pet food industry is estimated to be worth over $125 billion. Tapping into this vast opportunity is South African-born Nhlanhla Dlamini, the founder and CEO of Maneli Pets. From its factory in Johannesburg, the company produces a range of innovative pet treats – including from unique protein sources such as ostrich, venison, crocodile, and fish – for both the domestic and international markets.

How we made it in Africa's editor-in-chief Jaco Maritz spoke to Dlamini about his business journey.

Highlights from the interview include:

• Dlamini's take on whether an MBA is worth the money
• His decision to leave McKinsey and venture into entrepreneurship
• Why buyers in America and beyond are interested in pet treats from South Africa
• The strategic choice to focus on pet treats rather than general pet food
• Choosing to establish a factory from the outset rather than starting small
• Reflections on what he would have done differently if starting the company again

Watch the full interview here

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