Online Reporter
Judith Phiri,Business Reporter
FARMERS in the Matabeleland region have been urged to tap into the horticulture export markets, as the growing demand for horticultural produce presents huge opportunities.
Horticulture remains one of Zimbabwe’s most promising sectors, contributing substantially to export earnings.
The country’s horticultural sector is diverse, encompassing a range of fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops. Key fruits include grapes, tree nuts (like pecan nuts and macadamia), blueberries, avocados, and citrus.
Vegetables are also a major part of the sector, with common crops like tomatoes, cabbages, green leaf vegetables, onions, and potatoes. Specialty crops like peas, beans, garlic, and chili are also cultivated for both local and export markets.
In an interview, Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Matabeleland Chapter past vice-president and businessman, Mr Louis Herbst, said the industry was a crucial part of Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape, significantly contributing to sector growth and the broader economy.
“It enhances diversification by focusing on fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants, reducing reliance on traditional staples like maize and tobacco. This diversification improves resilience to climate shocks and market fluctuations,” he said.
“The sector also creates numerous employment opportunities across the value chain, particularly in rural areas, and has strong export potential for products such as citrus, avocados, and flowers, generating vital foreign currency.”
He said horticulture also supports food security and nutrition by increasing the availability of fresh produce and encourages innovation through the adoption of modern farming technologies, which further stimulate economic growth.
The horticulture sector has the potential to become a US$2,4 billion annual export industry if investments worth approximately US$800 million are made.
The export potential, unveiled through the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency’s (ZIDA) first quarter 2025 report, comes with a projected 586 650 jobs set to be created across the value chain.
