An agricultural enterprise located in the rural area of Limpopo is ready to expand national supply chains for the Food Lover's Market chain following its victory in a major enterprise development program. The company's founders state that this will help protect local jobs and combat food waste in small farming communities.
Solving the surplus harvest problem
Ecovado, an avocado oil producer based in the village of Dovheni, was recognized as the winner of the Seeds of Change 2026 enterprise development program. This company, founded by the couple Hulisani Mabugana and Hulisani Mudau, processes locally grown, low-quality avocados that do not meet strict fresh market standards into high-quality oil and value-added products.
In many rural areas of Limpopo, avocado trees grow in almost every home garden. While this provides food for families, it creates a serious problem for small local farmers trying to sell surplus fruit. Since the local market is oversaturated, and low-grade avocados are rejected by large fresh produce distributors due to minor aesthetic flaws, the harvests of rural producers often spoil.
Local processing and economic development
Ecovado established its processing base directly within the community to generate value at the source. By processing avocados close to the point of harvest, the business retains economic benefit within the village, reduces transportation costs, and provides a reliable source of income for residents. Co-founder Hulisani Mabugana stated that Ecovado is more than just a food business; it is a means of developing and empowering rural areas.
Mabugana emphasized that every bottle reflects the hard work of local farmers, workers, and communities who believe in creating value from South African agriculture. Their goal is to transform avocados into opportunity, prosperity, and long-term positive change.
Challenges in rural industry
Establishing a manufacturing enterprise in a rural area comes with unique logistical and infrastructural difficulties. Mabugana explained that for entrepreneurs operating outside major urban centers, penetrating the commercial market is a complex process, making official retail recognition a crucial moment for the entire community.
She noted that as an entrepreneur from a rural community, there are numerous obstacles to establishing a manufacturing business. Such recognition validates the value and potential of their vision, instilling hope in the village community for job preservation and the possibility of creating additional employment through this venture. Currently, the enterprise provides vital work for both men and women in the village of Dovheni, helping to stimulate the local economy that is often overlooked by major commercial investments.
The path to store shelves
Ecovado won first place after an intensive week-long training program in Cape Town and a final presentation day before a group of retail executives. As part of the program, Food Lover's Market will support Ecovado through mentorship, providing retail information, as well as consulting on packaging, branding, and quality systems. This assistance aims to help the rural business refine its offering to customers and bring its products onto commercial store shelves.
Andrew Wilson, Head of People and Sustainability at Food Lover's Market, stated that the program is aimed at supporting enterprises that create practical, long-term changes at the grassroots level. Wilson noted that Ecovado serves as a prime example of how local food innovations can reduce waste, create opportunities for farmers, support rural production, and bring proudly South African produce closer to consumers. He added that the retail group seeks to share knowledge with promising businesses operating in underserved areas.
