12 Jun 2017

Consumers will for the first time, enjoy Mosukujane Ice Tea as it now can be found at The Square Mart in Gaborone.

The ice tea is made from Mosukujane (Lippia Javanica) extract, which is a native herb well known for its minty taste and aroma. 

Native Foods managing director, Moagisi Gokatweng says research had shown that the herb was four times richer in anti-oxidants than what was currently available in the market.

“We did a sensory analysis at Riverwalk from which we discovered that our brand beats the taste of all the brands available in the market,” said Gokatweng

He explained that the idea of making Mosukujane ice tea came after wondering what Botswana had that could be shared with the rest of the world. 

“We realised that Mosukujane is something we can offer and do well in the market as it is a native herb. We serve a health conscious and growing middle class and Mosukujane being caffeine free, would be a better option to offer,” stated Gokatweng

Gokatweng said the market accepted and loved the ice tea and were happy to provide an alternative, healthy and nutritious tea.

Even though Mosukujane is well known locally, Gokatweng believed they had added to variety of readily available teas.

He said it was high time Batswana realised that there was more to natural resources than diamonds and tourism. 

“As Batswana we should be able to offer anyone who wants a locally produced tea and at Native Foods, we are currently bridging that gap. We want to show the world that we take pride in our food and culture,” he said.

Native Foods produces traditional food and Gokatweng said they spotted a niche in the market and capitalised on it. 

Kgodu Ya Leretso, is one of their fastest growing products. They also brew and produce Madila and are planning to produce canned seswaa and mokoto. ENDS