Shabait.com (Asmara)
20 August 2008
Haikota — President Isaias Afwerki yesterday inaugurated the newly set up Banana and Tomato Processing Factory in Alebu, Haikota sub-zone. The President observed the activities of the factory "Banatom," during which he received briefings by experts and managers.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in which ministers, regional Administrators, Army commanders, village elders and invited guests took part, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Gergis Teklemichael, indicated that the factory would be engaged in processing bananas over eight months and four months in processing tomatoes.
He further pointed out that the factory has been set up in Alebu in view of the fact that there exists fertile land and the farmers of the area are engaged in the production of banana and tomato, and thus provide them with easy access to market. It is also in line with efforts to promote equitable economic growth and social justice, in addition to introducing modern farming methods, the Minister elaborated.
Dr. Gergis went on to say that the factory is owned by the Eritrean government and Mr. Katili, an Italian investor, in partnership. He further explained that the factory meets international standards and that a sample of its production has been sent abroad and has borne fruitful outcome.
Also speaking on the occasion, the Administrator of Gash-Barka region, Mr. Kahsai Gebrehiwet, stated that the opening of the factory in Haikota sub-zone would give additional impetus to the development and modernization pace of the area. Expressing conviction that the newly established plant would be effective considering the existing natural resources in the area, Mr. Kahsai called on the farming community in the area to strive for competitive output.
Banatom Factory set up along the Asmara-Tessenei road has already provided job opportunities to 170 citizens.
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