Moffat Mungazi
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
ZIMBABWE is failing to reap the full benefits of its timber industry, as it only exports raw timber instead of exploiting the entire value chain, including by-products.
This was revealed at a Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries seminar, which was aimed at exploring market opportunities in the timber value chain.
Entrepreneurs were challenged to capitalise on the vast investment opportunities in the value chain, creating more industries, particularly in the manufacturing sector. This will boost the provincial Gross Domestic Product (GDP), export earnings, and employment creation, among other benefits.
The industry also offers opportunities for early maturity seed varieties, as there is currently a shortage of these seeds on the local market.
Integrating timber production with crop or livestock farming and diversifying into new products, such as bamboo, were suggested as additional investment opportunities. Timber Producers Federation chief executive officer, Mr Darlington Duwa said despite challenges like fires, illegal settlers, mining activities, and expensive regulatory fees, the sector still has room to expand its value chain.
He emphasised the need to invest in new and efficient technologies.
“The timber industry has declined significantly over the years.
“At its peak, the industry boasted around 120 000 hectares of planted area, but this has dwindled to approximately 70 000 hectares.
“Currently, there are more young plantations than mature timber ready for harvest. Fires have been a major setback, particularly in 2007 when 10 000 hectares were lost in the Chimanimani area. By now, that timber would have reached maturity, but unfortunately, it is no longer available.
“In 2024, fires ravaged another 3 000 hectares, and statistics are still being compiled.Some estates have been encroached upon by settlers who have converted plantation areas into agricultural land.
“Efforts are underway to negotiate relocation or partnerships between settlers and plantations to restore the land to its original purpose. The industry urgently needs to invest in cutting-edge technology and modernise its machinery.
“ Furthermore, there has been a surge in timber theft, with individuals using mobile milling machines to poach timber. Mining activities in plantations are causing degradation, rendering the land unusable. Unsustainable regulatory fees are also crippling the industry, making products uncompetitive in the international market.
“However, opportunities still exist for entrepreneurs, such as mobile milling and furniture manufacturing.
“Many companies rely on small-to-medium enterprises for transportation, and entrepreneurs can create value-added products from timber waste, which is currently a significant problem due to outdated equipment,” said Mr Duwa.
CZI Manicaland president, Mr Ben Makoni said the country can reclaim its position as the leading exporter of timber products in Southern Africa, but this requires investment.
“We are exploring ways to harness value-added products from timber, moving beyond selling raw materials. Despite investment gaps, there is significant demand for timber and its by-products in the market.
“Zimbabwe once led in value addition, exporting to Europe, Australia, and South Africa.
“However, a lack of machinery and technology has led to a reversal, with the country now importing timber products. We have been overtaken by events, but we can revamp the industry,” said Mr Makoni.
Manica Boards and Doors forest executive, Dr Robert Mutisi said there is need for financing to plant idle land and ensure abundant raw materials.
“Plantation forest loss in Zimbabwe is alarming, affecting opportunities in the timber value chain.
“We must secure funding to plant trees on idle land, increasing hectares from the current 70 000 hectares to around 100 000 hectares,” he said.
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