4TEE Foods Products is a business that produces KAMBUZI, PIRIPIRI and VINEGAR. It was founded by Elizabeth Gideon Banda, who gained her expertise in food science from the University of Malawi, The Polytechnic. Elizabeth holds a Diploma in Laboratory Technology, a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science & Technology, specializing in Food Technology and a Master's degree in Infrastructure Development & Management. Additionally, she has received training as a Food Safety Management Systems Lead Auditor. Elizabeth is a Food Safety Consultant and is dedicated to public service delivery.
After years of working in the food industry and nurturing her dreams, Elizabeth established her own manufacturing business, 4TEE Foods Products. The name "4TEE" represents Elizabeth's four children, whose names all begin with the letter T (Thomson, Tinashe, Tracy, and Tarren). The last two letters, "E" is the first of her and her husband's names.
Located at Chilomoni Trading Centre in Blantyre, 4TEE Foods Products primarily focuses on producing delicious foods that offer high quality, exceptional taste, and nutritional value to the market. Its driving force is a combination of passion and unique capabilities, which enable it to provide affordable and top-notch food products. Its product lineup includes traditional hot sauces such as Kambuzi and Piripiri, known as "Tsabola" in the local vernacular. Additionally, 4TEE Foods Products produces Vinegar.
The journey began with a few bottles of Kambuzi and Piripiri hot sauces distributed as samples to gather consumer feedback. Based on feedback, the products were improved over time.
Subsequently, in July 2022, 4TEE Foods Products was legally registered under the laws of Malawi. Its products are pre-certified by the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS).
To ensure high-quality chilli sauces, 4TEE Foods Products sources well-graded bird's eye chilies and Kambuzi from local farmers in rural areas in Blantyre, Chiradzulu, Thyolo, Mulanje and Balaka.
While the local community, supermarkets and restaurants remain a key target market, the business aims to expand its customer base to include the international market. It plans to introduce a wide range of food products to meet the ever-increasing demand for its products.
The business has three permanent employees, including the owner. All the employees are involved in the production, while the owner handles administrative tasks.
The availability of raw materials and the business' self-production tactics have been instrumental in its growth. Moreover, 4TEE Foods Products incorporates sustainable practices into its operations.
However, it faces challenges, including a lack of proper equipment, necessitating a time-and cost-intensive traditional approach. Additionally, limited working capital poses constraints on expanding production and increasing the customer base.
Despite being in operation for just a year, 4TEE Foods Products has made a significant contribution to the horticulture sector by supporting local farmers, as most of the ingredients are sourced from them. The business positively impacts the livelihoods of farmers and the wider community by improving their incomes and promoting the horticulture sector. In the future, the company plans to establish partnerships with farmers to enhance relationships and explore ways to increase the productivity of raw materials.
"I would like to express our sincere gratitude to SMEDI for selecting 4TEE Foods Products to participate in showcasing our products at the 33rd International Trade Fair. This opportunity has allowed us to connect with potential clients interested in doing business with us. Moreover, the Trade Fair has helped raise awareness about the presence of 4TEE Foods Products in the market. We extend our heartfelt thanks to SMEDI for their exceptional work. Bravo!"
-Elizabeth Gideon Banda.
Ministry of Trade & Industry - Malawi
Ministry of Labour.
In Pictures: Elizabeth Gideon Banda – 4TEE Foods Founder, showcasing her products.
