Drawing inspiration from the Baobao tree known locally as ‘mowana’, which he grew up eating at home, Modongo is transforming this revered tree into a range of unique and healthful products. Amongst his products, he makes such delicacies like sorghum from mowana and beverages like coffee using mowana seeds and mowana powder. Narrating his progress so far to MonitorBusiness, Modongo says he started his journey four years ago after realising the potential the tree has. “I grew up eating mowana in almost everything. My mother used it daily in our meals. I started wondering of commercialising it. I decided to start with the sorghum as it was the one that we used to eat at home,” Modongo explained.
From the sorghum he showcased, Modongo said he was impressed with the feedback and created more products which he then took for testing at the National Food Technology Research Centre (NAFTEC). The Centre is a research and development organisation funded by government which has devoted its efforts to ensuring the availability of safe, quality and nutritious food to Batswana. Meanwhile, with a growing clientele and increasing demand for his unique Baobab-based products, Modongo recognises the need to scale up production to ensure consistent supply of his popular mowana products. According to the entrepreneur, he aims to streamline his manufacturing process, employing modern technology and efficient practices to meet growing demand without compromising quality through careful planning and strategic investment,. “By modernising production facilities and equipping my team with the necessary skills and knowledge, I lay the foundation for sustainable growth and long-term success,” he says.
While Modongo has primarily relied on social media and door to door sales to market his products, he understands the importance of expanding his reach in order to meet a broader audience. By leveraging digital marketing strategies, including targeted advertising and e-commerce platforms, he plans to extend his market reach beyond his local community, tapping into regional and global markets. Equally, by recognising the importance of community involvement and sustainability, Modongo is committed to empowering the communities in Bobirwa, Tswapong and Chobe through the gathering of mowana. Modongo says by engaging residents of these areas in the sustainable harvesting of Baobao fruit, he is not only creating economic opportunities but also fosters a sense of pride and ownership in preserving indigenous resources.
He remains steadfast in his commitment to preserving tradition while driving innovation. By harnessing the nutritional and cultural value of the Baobao tree, he does not only create premium products but also promotes environmental stewardship and community resilience. In a world increasingly focused on health and sustainability, Modongo’s Baobao –based products offer a glimpse into a future where ancient wisdom and contemporary needs intersect providing nourishing solutions that honour both the past and the present.
