Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
THE Chinese Government has reaffirmed its commitment to boost Zimbabwe’s horticulture sector, not only by opening its market to local produce, but also by pledging to rehabilitate several dilapidated irrigation schemes in Manicaland.
Speaking at the Zimbabwe–China Horticultural Buyers Engagement Conference, hosted by ZimTrade in Mutare last week, the Economic and Commercial Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy, Mr Huang Minghai, said China is eager to deepen trade ties with Zimbabwe.
He emphasised that rehabilitating irrigation infrastructure will empower farmers to increase production for both domestic consumption and export markets.
Mr Huang highlighted China’s ongoing investments in Manicaland, including the drilling of 300 boreholes through a grant, a partnership between Chinese firm, Foton Motor and Quest Motors Group, and the provision of scholarships for Mutare Polytechnic students to acquire technical skills in China.
“It is no coincidence that this event is held in Manicaland, a province uniquely suited to host this gathering. Blessed with abundant natural resources and fertile land, Manicaland has long been a key agricultural trade partner of China. Its high-quality tobacco, macadamia nuts and other horticultural products have steadily entered the Chinese market, delivering tangible benefits to both sides.
“What is more, the Chinese Government has drilled more than 300 boreholes with a grant, and will upgrade several irrigation schemes in the coming two years for Manicaland. These initiatives will further enhance the productivity of the local horticultural industry and lay a more solid foundation for our bilateral agricultural cooperation. Beyond agriculture, our cooperation in Manicaland is thriving across multiple sectors. China’s leading vehicle manufacturer, Foton Motor has partnered with Zimbabwe’s Quest Motor Group to build a pickup assembly line in Mutare, while a Chinese vocational college is collaborating with Mutare Polytechnic to nurture professional technical personnel. We firmly believe that by working hand in glove with the Manicaland provincial government, we can further deepen cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, education, tourism and other fields, so that the fruits of cooperation can better drive local economic and social development.
“China and Zimbabwe are all-weather friends and comprehensive strategic cooperative partners. Our agricultural cooperation is rooted in mutual respect, driven by practical results and oriented towards shared development. China’s zero-tariff policy, coupled with growing Chinese market demand and strengthened cooperation mechanisms, is opening a new chapter for China-Zimbabwe agricultural cooperation. By linking China’s vast market with Zimbabwe’s rich agricultural potential, we are, not only expanding bilateral trade, but also creating more opportunities for industrialisation, employment and prosperity in both countries. Let us join hands to seize this historic opportunity, deepen cooperation in horticulture and other fields, and deliver more tangible benefits to the people of our two nations,” he said.
A number of irrigation schemes in Manicaland, particularly in Chimanimani and Chipinge districts, are now dysfunctional due to damage mainly caused by cyclones, which destroyed canals, fields and other key infrastructure, leaving communities stranded.
The rehabilitation of damaged irrigation schemes in Manicaland will be crucial to boost horticulture. The schemes, which were ravaged by both cyclones and neglect, have left communities stranded and unable to fully exploit their agricultural potential.
With China’s commitment to rehabilitate these schemes, farmers in Manicaland will have access to reliable water sources, enabling them to increase production and improve the quality of their produce.
This, in turn, will enhance the province’s horticulture sector, leading to increased exports and economic growth. The rehabilitation of irrigation schemes will also have a ripple effect on the local economy, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic activity, while enabling farmers to diversify their crops, explore new markets, and improve their livelihoods.
The revitalised irrigation schemes will also benefit local communities, providing them with access to clean water and improved sanitation.
The increased agricultural productivity will also lead to improved food security, enabling communities to meet their nutritional needs and generate income.
With the support of the China, Manicaland is poised to unlock its full agricultural potential and become a major player in the global horticulture market.
