The XAF 2.7bn ($5m) investment will create 12 additional jobs at its Douala-Bonabéri plant and has the potential to create 48 new jobs in the coming years.
The new production unit has an annual production capacity of more than 5,500 tons, and will manufacture Nido Forti Choco and continue to package Nido powdered milk.
The production is intended for both the local market and export to Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) countries.
Launched in 2016 in Cameroon, Nido Forti Choco is made from milk powder, cocoa and sugar, and enriched with iron, zinc, calcium and vitamins.
Employs more than 450 in Cameroon
Thomas Caso, country manager of Nestlé Cameroon, said, “Nestlé has been improving the quality of life and contributing to a healthier future for the Cameroonian population for more than 50 years. As evidenced by this investment, we believe in the socio-economic development of the country and we want to continue to be a key partner in the growth of the local agro-industry.
"We will continue to explore with our partners and the relevant authorities ways to increase our local production and local sourcing of raw materials and packaging materials.”
Nestlé has been present in Cameroon since 1965 and started local production in 1981. The company employs more than 450 people directly and is the main source of income for thousands of other families.
The construction of the production plant is part of a XAF 10bn ($18.6m) investment announced in 2016. Since 2010, Nestlé has invested about XAF 20bn ($37.1m) in Cameroon.