Online Reporter
Edgar Vhera
Specialist Writer – Agribusiness
ZIMBABWE sesame seed exports have risen 152 percent from US$1,5 million in the first nine months last year to US$3,8 million in the comparable period this year.
This comes as Danish investors are calling for value addition of the crop.
Statistics from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStats) show the country earned US$1 524 766 from January to September 2024 to US$3 835 891 during the corresponding period this year.
In volume terms, it rose 188 percent from 1,3 million to 3,8 million kilogrammes.
A high-level visit by the Danish business delegation recently revealed Zimbabwe could earn more through exporting value-added sesame products.
DanChurchAid country director, Mr Mads Schack Lindegaard, said Denmark was a ready market for the niche organic sesame produced by Zimbabwe.
He discouraged the export of the produce in its raw form.
“What we are trying to do is to set up value addition production in Zimbabwe from Denmark’s advanced value addition industry,” he said.
“This will create more employment opportunities for locals and increase capital earnings. Why export sesame seed instead of processing it into oil for a higher premium on its products.”
European and international markets are focused on sustainability and organic farming.
