Online Reporter
Michael Tome, Zimpapers Business Writer
MIDLANDS State University (MSU) has commenced snap pea production at Gwenhoro Farm in Gweru, targeting export markets in alignment with the country’s Education 5.0 initiative, which emphasises the practical application of knowledge to drive production and economic growth.
Snap pea cultivation at Gwenhoro Farm reflects the national vision of empowering tertiary institutions to lead industrial growth and development.
Harvesting is in full swing at the farm, which is part of the Midlands Peas Cluster, growing the crop for the European export market.
This development comes as local manufacturers and educational institutions are being encouraged to adopt and implement heritage-based education to gain a competitive edge in regional and international markets.
MSU’s snap pea production also falls under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. The university is building on the success of other snap pea growers as it works towards establishing direct access to global markets.
Through the PPP model, MSU stands to benefit from collaborative partnerships that combine academic expertise, industry experience and Government support — ultimately driving innovation and development in the agricultural sector.
Rising demand for peas, particularly in Europe, is expanding export opportunities for Zimbabwe, promising increased returns for local farmers. This initiative is expected to contribute to national economic growth by boosting export earnings.
In 2024, the global snap peas market was valued at US$462 million, presenting Zimbabwe with a significant opportunity to tap into this lucrative sector.
Both the Education 5.0 initiative and the PPP model align with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1), which aims to enhance human capital development and innovation — key drivers in achieving Vision 2030.
Although NDS 1 concludes in December 2025, the blueprint seeks to establish a knowledge-driven economy, fostering sustained growth and industrialisation through a reconfigured education system that prioritises Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (Steam).
In an interview with this publication, MSU Director of Agro-Business, Mr Joseph Mataruse, said support from ZimTrade had inspired the university to expand its production capacity and pursue export opportunities.
“We were not involved in exports until we received motivation through workshops conducted by ZimTrade. They even facilitated visits to European markets where our products are in demand.
“We are now targeting European markets, including the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. We also aim to supply the Middle East, specifically Saudi Arabia and Dubai,” said Mr Mataruse.
Also contributing to the national pea output is Linkfield Farm, one of the largest producers in Midlands Province. The farm has dedicated 34 hectares to the crop and anticipates substantial yields this season.
Linkfield Technical Manager, Mr Thomas Karimazondo, said pea production is a profitable horticultural venture, offering farmers a valuable opportunity to diversify and meet growing demand.
“Pea production is highly profitable within the horticulture sector, providing farmers with a chance to diversify and capitalise on the increasing demand for this nutritious and versatile legume.
“With its potential for high yields and strong market demand, pea farming can be a rewarding enterprise, contributing to economic growth and development. At Linkfield, we aim to deliver approximately 49 to 50 tonnes of peas to Germany,” said Mr Karimazondo.
The Midlands Peas Cluster is steadily positioning itself as a key player in Zimbabwe’s horticultural export sector, driven by growing interest from regional and international buyers. This season, a total of 83 hectares have been planted, with an expected output of around 664 tonnes.
ZimTrade Client Advisor, Ms Nozipho Maphala, said pea production presents a lucrative opportunity for local farmers. She emphasised ZimTrade’s commitment to expanding production capacity, particularly through cluster initiatives, to broaden Zimbabwe’s export basket.
“Pea production is green gold for local farmers, and at ZimTrade, we are dedicated to boosting output through cluster initiatives.
“This will expand our export base and create profitable opportunities for farmers. Now, we are accessing foreign currency markets through pea exports, which also creates employment,” said Ms Maphala.
Profit margins for local farmers are expected to rise this year due to seasonal disruptions affecting pea exports from Guatemala, one of the world’s leading suppliers.
Through the Education 5.0 initiative, local universities are making significant strides in producing goods that meet export market demands. Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) has secured a deal to export watermelons to Dubai. Midlands State University (MSU) is expected to begin exporting citrus products to Dubai next year, with logistics already in place.
