Ecovado and Alfa Laval Partner to drive economic growth in underdeveloped communities in South Africa

Ecovado, an emerging agro processing company founded by South Africa entrepreneur Hulisani Mudau, launched its new avocado oil processing plant in partnership with Alfa Laval Middle East, South and East Africa. The project supports economic development in the u Vhembe District community in Limpopo in South Africa.

Kolding, Denmark, July 2026

Ecovado was established by Hulisani Mudau, who recognized the region’s untapped potential: an abundance of avocados that could help address the limited economic opportunities. The company was created to stimulate local development through job creation, fruit‑for‑cash initiatives, and long‑term agricultural sustainability.

 Ecovado built and equipped an Avocado oil processing plant with a 100% Alfa Laval processing line. This world‑class technology now allows Ecovado to produce high‑quality avocado oil, the majority of which is destined for export markets.

Additionally, Alfa Laval donated funds to purchase avocado seedlings for small‑scale farmers in the surrounding communities. This initiative aims to expand local avocado production, ensuring long‑term supply for the plant while creating new income streams for households.

A partnership rooted in community impact

“This project represents exactly what sustainable industrial development should look like, world‑class technology enabling local entrepreneurship, job creation, and long‑term community development. We are proud to support Ecovado in transforming the natural abundance of Venda into real economic opportunity. This project captures Alfa Laval’s purpose, “Pioneering Positive Impact” “, said Bongani Twala, General Manager of Alfa Laval South and East Africa.

For Ecovado, the partnership is more than a business milestone; it is a catalyst for regional transformation.

Hulasani Mudau, Managing Director of Ecovado, highlighted the significance of the initiative saying “This project was born from a desire to change the economic landscape of my home community. With Alfa Laval’s support, we have been able to build a facility that not only processes avocado oil but also creates livelihoods. The world-class equipment and seedling donation have empowered us to grow an industry that belongs to the people of Venda.”

A model for rural industrialization

The Ecovado plant is now fully operational, employing local residents and sourcing fruit directly from small‑scale growers. As production scales, the company aims to expand its network of community suppliers and increase export volumes, positioning Venda as a competitive player in the global avocado oil market.

This partnership between Ecovado and Alfa Laval demonstrates how strategic investment, local leadership, and advanced technology can build economic potential in underserved regions.

For further information, please contact: Raghda Helal, Communications Manager Marketing MEA.
Raghda.Helal@alfalaval.com

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Alfa Laval was founded 140 years ago, has customers in 100 countries, employs more than 23,670 people, and annual sales were SEK 69.6 billion (6.6 BEUR) in 2025. The company is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.   

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