The baobab fruit tree provides food, shelter and water to both humans and animals which is why it plays such a significant role in many African ecosystems. Patricia Mathivha from Shayandima in Limpopo is the managing director of VIDA Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd based in Pretoria Gauteng, which has been manufacturing pharmaceuticals product since (2016) from the indigenous baobab tree.
In South Africa the tree is found mostly in the Vhembe and Mutale districts of Limpopo province.
The fruit has a long history of use in Africa and has high level of antioxidants like vitamins C, B1, B2 and minerals calcium, iron as well as magnesium.
“I was inspired to start VIDA Brand SA because of the existing challenges of inaccessible life-saving and life-enhancing healthy food technologies in under-resourced communities around the country.
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“As part of my journey to expand and improve VIDA products, I have worked with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research ( CSIR) to develop two products lines from the baobab fruit pulp, instant maize porridge and snack bar, although there are other products that are being or still to be manufactured like shakes and yoghurts,” Mathivha said.
She further explained that working through with the CSIR, VIDA’s range of products were accessible, affordable and had all the nutritional requirements that were needed to maintain a healthy diet without spending lots of money.
VIDA Pharmaceuticals is manufacturing its own production equipment, as they have plans of opening up a factory in Niani village near Musina in Limpopo.
Women of Niani and surrounding areas collect the baobab fruit, mbuyu, to be sold to the factory.
Not only will this help to develop the area, but it will also create job opportunities. Plans to distribute the food products to many retail stores and wholesalers were underway. – Mukurukuru Media
