‘Matabeleland has huge potential for horticulture’

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 peas, beans, garlic and chilli. Key fruits include grapes, tree nuts (like pecan and macadamia), blueberries, avocados and citrus.

Vegetables include tomatoes, cabbage, green leaf vegetables, onions and potatoes.
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 the growth of the sector and the broader economy.

“It enhances diversification by focusing on fruits, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants, thereby, 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 employment opportunities across the value chain, particularly in rural areas, and has strong export potential for products such as citrus, avocados and flowers”.

Mr Herbst said horticulture also supported food security and nutrition by increasing the availability of fresh produce and encouraged innovation through the adoption of modern farming technologies, which also further stimulate economic growth.
He said as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) becomes a reality, Zimbabwe and neighbouring smaller economies must explore innovative methods to contribute to the gross domestic product (GDP) and remain competitive on the continent.

“Leveraging horticulture and other industries will be essential for expanding market access, fostering intra-Africa trade and building resilient economies,” said Mr Herbst.
He said the Matabeleland region climate and readily available land presented a significant potential for horticultural development.

Mr Herbst urged farmers in the region to concentrate on drought-resistant crops and adopt innovative irrigation methods to increase productivity.

He said developing infrastructure such as packing facilities and cold rooms will ensure farmers’ produce reach both regional and international markets in good state.

He added: “Promoting value addition through local processing can boost product value and create more jobs. Investing in capacity building and adopting modern agricultural practices will improve yields and quality.
Public-private partnerships can support infrastructure development, funding mobilisation and market linkages, while engaging with regional and international markets will open export opportunities, especially for organic and specialty produce.”

Local agronomist, Leo Maphosa, said farmers in the region could grow crops such as cucumbers, eggplant, watermelons, butternuts and sweet pepper, among other horticulture crops.

“These have a ready market and can bring quick returns. The horticulture industry offers a pathway for Zimbabwe to diversify its agriculture and generate employment while boosting economic growth,” he said.

“For Matabeleland, strategic investments and innovative approaches tailored to its unique conditions can position the region as a key player in the country’s horticultural export sector and contribute meaningfully to continental trade.”
Economic analyst, Mr Reginald Shoko, said the horticulture sector was crucial for agricultural development, economic growth and food security.

“Matabeleland farmers need to jump into the mix for the development of the region and personal incomes,” he said.
In response to the industry’s growth, the Second Republic has launched various initiatives to increase the sector’s productivity and improve access to international markets.

The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) has also participated in various leading international trade shows for the horticulture sector to explore the latest developments, investment opportunities and partnerships in the sector.
According to data presented by the HDC, the sector can expand the area under horticulture from 90 000 hectares to over 132 000 ha.

Fresh produce alone is expected to contribute US$1,38 billion in export revenue annually, supporting over 378 000 jobs.
The sector has the potential to generate US$2,4 billion worth of exports annually if about US$800 million is invested in the sector.