Benue: Picama, Sono To Expand Bensono Concentrate From 40,000 To 100,000 Metric Tons In Six Months
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Tor Vande-Acka
MAKURDI – PICAMA and Sono Group has disclosed plans to expand the Bensono Concentrate Plant in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, from its current production status of 40,000 metric tons to 100,000 metric tons.
President of the Group, Frank Runge, who made the pledged to upscale the production at the Plant from its current production capacity, also stated that the company was set to introduce a new juice production line in the state.
Making the commitment during a business visit to the state Governor, Hyacinth Alia at the Government House, Makurdi, Runge, stated that Sono International would add a new production line for Meigo drinks within the next six months.
He explained that the additional line is part of its continued investment in the state’s agro-processing sector, describing Benue as a strategic destination for food processing and value addition.
Runge, further observed that the group was driven by the enormous agricultural potential of the state and said it was determined to help reduce post-harvest losses by expanding processing facilities.
While the president of the group noted that it has successfully executed similar food processing projects in Ghana and Brazil, Runge expressed confidence in the quality of juice already being produced in Benue.
He stressed that the planned investment in Benval Limited would make the factory fully operational, increase productivity, strengthen the agro-industrial value chain and create greater opportunities for farmers and the local economy.
Responding, the state governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, pointed out that his administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for investors.
He explained that government has removed bottlenecks that hinder investment, noting that Benue now enjoys investment ratings from Fitch and Augusto, making it one of the country’s most attractive destinations for business.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr Sam Ode, Alia, appreciated Sono International for its partnership with Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), which led to the successful takeoff of Bensono Concentrate Plant, recently commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He assured the delegation that the state government would continue to address challenges facing investors, just as he urged them to report any impediments for prompt intervention.
The Governor also reaffirmed the commitment of government to improving security across the state.
Earlier, the Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, CFA, said Sono Group was the strategic partner that collaborated with the company in building Bensono Concentrate Plant.
He revealed that the investors had returned to Benue to establish another production line through investment in Benval Limited, a move expected to further expand the state’s juice processing capacity.
Asemakaha also revealed that the Chairman of Bokku Supermart Chain, Christian Pantung, was part of the delegation to discuss off-taking products manufactured by the company, thereby creating a ready market for BIPC’s beverages. End.
