Ubombo Sugar Limited (USL) brought together existing and prospective suppliers during the Annual Suppliers Day in Big Bend yesterday.
The aim was to strengthen partnerships, engage, promote ethical business practices and outline the company’s growth trajectory.
The event attended by the Ubombo Sugar executive team, including the managing director, highlighted the strategic importance the company places on supplier relationships and transparent communication.
Addressing participants, USL Managing Director Muzi Siyaya outlined significant expansion plans, describing the company as a growing business with increasing operational activity.
He explained that the entity is currently undertaking a major factory expansion to increase its crushing capacity, with an investment of approximately E1.3 billion alongside further investment of about E1.5 billion aimed at increasing power exports.
He noted that these developments were expected to transform the business environment in and around Big Bend, as expansion naturally attracts increased economic and human activity.
According to the managing director, the next three to four years are expected to be characterised by sustained infrastructure development and heightened business activity, presenting opportunities for suppliers across various sectors.
ALSO READ | King jets out to Equatorial Guinea
The managing director also acknowledged long-standing suppliers for their consistent delivery of quality and reliability, while encouraging aspiring suppliers seeking to join the Ubombo Sugar value chain.
He emphasised that supplier success is closely tied to adherence to quality standards and alignment with the company’s values.
Participants actively engaged throughout the event, with some seeking clarity on small and medium enterprise (SME) opportunities, procurement requirements and payment processes, reflecting the importance of predictable cash flow and access to opportunities for local businesses.
“The Annual Suppliers Day forms part of Ubombo Sugar’s broader commitment to responsible procurement, ethical conduct, and inclusive economic participation, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to socio-economic development while maintaining operational excellence,” Siyaya said.
