Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe,Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Government has intensified efforts to scale up crocodile farming and exports, with the spotlight on Binga district amidst growing global demand for premium crocodile skins and meat.
Chief Director of the Directorate of Veterinary Services, Dr Pious Makaya, recently led a strategic tour of the Binga Crocodile Farm to assess its operations and identify areas of potential growth within the broader framework of the country’s agro-wildlife economy.
In a statement, the ministry said framing the visit within Zimbabwe’s economic development agenda, Dr Makaya underscored the strategic importance of crocodile farming in generating foreign currency and stimulating rural economic development.
“Facilitating such trade is a core mandate of the Directorate of Veterinary Services,” the ministry said.
The visit, according to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, was a calculated move to explore pathways for scaling up crocodile production and positioning Zimbabwe as a leading global exporter.
The country’s crocodile products are already reaching high-value markets across Europe, Asia and other global regions.
Binga Crocodile Farm, a major hub in the sector, boasts over 600 breeding crocodiles.
The farm’s Company Veterinarian, Dr Noble Sakuringwa said operation’s strength is the more than 600 breeding crocodiles they have with skin as the flagship product and meat catering to domestic consumers.
“He affirmed that the farm stands as the largest employer in Binga District, anchoring livelihoods and driving the local economy.”
Zimbabwe’s crocodile farming sector continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s agro-wildlife export matrix.
In 2023, crocodile skin exports surged by 56 percent rising from US$22 million to US$34 million supporting an estimated 1 600 direct jobs in the process, the ministry added.
The country is currently ranked as the world’s second-largest exporter of Nile crocodile products and holds an impressive 45 percent share of the global Niloticus skin market.
Government and private stakeholders have since expressed commitment to further capacitate farms such as Binga Crocodile Farm with the aim of expanding production and solidifying Zimbabwe’s footprint in the lucrative exotic leather industry.
Bongani Ndlovu