Ecovado, an emerging agri‑processing company founded by local entrepreneur Hulisani Mudau, recently launched its new avocado oil processing plant in partnership with Alfa Laval Middle East, South and East Africa. The project supports economic development in the u Vhembe District community in Limpopo, South Africa.
Emerging agri-processing company Ecovado recently launched its avocado oil processing facility in partnership with Alfa Laval.
Ecovado was established by Mudau who recognised the region’s untapped potential in an abundance of avocados – which he saw could help address the limited economic opportunities in the area. The company was created to stimulate local development through job creation, fruit‑for‑cash initiatives, and long‑term agricultural sustainability.
To help the company realise its vision, Alfa Laval facilitated funding through the Swedish export credit agency, EKN, enabling Ecovado to build and equip an avocado oil processing plant with a 100% Alfa Laval processing line. This world‑class technology enables Ecovado to produce high‑quality avocado oil, most of which is destined for export markets.
Additionally, Alfa Laval donated funds to purchase avocado seedlings for small‑scale farmers in the surrounding communities. This initiative aims to expand local avocado production, ensuring long‑term supply for the plant and creating new income streams for households.
Rooted in community impact
“This project represents what sustainable industrial development should look like, world‑class technology enabling local entrepreneurship, job creation, and long-term community development. We are proud to support Ecovado in transforming the abundant harvest of avocado farming in the Vhembe region into real economic opportunity. This project captures Alfa Laval’s purpose, ‘Pioneering positive impact’,“ said Bongani Twala, General Manager of Alfa Laval South and East Africa.
For Ecovado, the partnership marks a business milestone and is a catalyst for regional transformation.
Mudau, Managing Director of Ecovado, highlighted the significance of the initiative saying, “This project was born from a desire to change the economic landscape of my home community. With Alfa Laval’s support, we have been able to build a facility that processes avocado oil and at the same time creates livelihoods. The funding, equipment, and seedlings donation have empowered us to grow an industry that belongs to the people of Venda.”
A model for rural industry
The Ecovado plant is fully operational, employing local residents and sourcing fruit directly from small‑scale growers. As production scales, the company aims to expand its network of community suppliers and increase export volumes, positioning the Vhembe District as a competitive player in the global avocado oil market.
The partnership between Ecovado and Alfa Laval demonstrates how strategic investment, local leadership, and advanced technology can build economic potential in underserved regions.
For more information visit: www.alfalaval.co.za
