Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter
Zimbabwe’s sole tobacco seed producer, Kutsaga Research Station, has partnered the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT) for research on industrial hemp and medical cannabis.
The initiative is a response to the urgent global concerns around climate change.
In a joint communique, Kutsaga and HIT said they had done extensive research on various uses of industrial hemp and medical cannabis.
“HIT and Kutsaga have come together to focus on research on value-added products, such as industrial hemp-based paper and composite bio-plastics that are cost-effective and durable.
“These materials have the potential to reduce Zimbabwe’s reliance on imports, reduce waste and contribute to climate change-mitigation initiatives,” the communique read in part.
HIT and Kutsaga’s ongoing project on industrial hemp-based laminated paper and composite bio-plastics creates an alternative to traditional materials, bringing sustainable and eco-friendly solutions to Zimbabwe and Africa.
Kutsaga plant breeder Dr Kumbirai Mateva said Zimbabwe’s adoption of legislation to allow the cultivation of industrial hemp provides ample opportunities for farmers to diversify their crops and contribute to sustainable development.
“This was in accordance with Government’s Vision 2030, with the objective of accelerating agricultural profitability and development in Zimbabwe.
“For years, hemp has been closely associated with its psychoactive cousin, marijuana, and, as a result, has been subjected to inordinately strict regulations and prohibition,” said Dr Mateva.
Globally, the industrial hemp market is valued at about US$4 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to US$18 billion by 2027.
Industrial hemp production and processing was legalised in Zimbabwe in 2020.
Progressive legislation saw its removal from the list of dangerous drugs this year following lobbying by the Zimbabwe Industrial Hemp Trust.
Online Reporter