A group of enterprising youths from Demera Extension Planning Area (EPA) in Traditional Authority Kabudula on the outskirts of Lilongwe city has come together to launch a cooking oil manufacturing venture.
The group, comprising 15 members, is manufacturing cooking oil, trading under the name “Noninoni Cooking Oil”, which is being touted as delicious.
Their manufacturing journey began earlier this year when the youth were introduced to the Transformative Livelihood Improvement for Management Ecosystem (TILIME) project, being implemented by an organisation called Point of Progress.
As part of the project, the grouping received an oil expeller machine, which they use to produce the cooking oil.
According to Eliza Symon, one of the group members, the venture has been a game-changer for youths.
“Through the production of Noninoni cooking oil, we have gained financial independence and we are our own bosses,” said Symon.
She said the production process involves the procurement of sunflower which is carefully sorted and processed into cooking oil using the expeller machine.
“We were trained on how to do this and I must say value addition has benefited us a lot,” said Symon.
The group’s success has also created a reliable market for local sunflower farmers who are selling raw materials to the group.
Meanwhile, Chikko Lwesha, Head of Programmes and Advocacy at Point of Progress says the organisation is impressed with the group’s success.
“We are thrilled to see Demera EPA youths embracing the TILIME project and making the most of the opportunities provided,” said Lwesha.
Currently, Noninoni cooking oil is being packed in 5 litre bottles and is being found at Point of Progress office in Area 6 or and Kabudula Trading Centre and is selling at a minimum price of K24,500.
