Young entrepreneur pioneers snail farming in Sakubva

Lloyd Makonya
Correspondent
SNAIL farming, an uncommon practice in Zimbabwe, is gaining attention, thanks to the innovative efforts of Mr Godfrey Gurupira, a young entrepreneur from Sakubva’s Devonshire sprawling suburb.
Traditionally dismissed as insignificant, snail farming is now being repositioned as an economically viable activity under Mr Gurupira’s stewardship.
For the past 18 months, he has been running a backyard snail farm, aspiring to transform it into a sustainable business that can uplift livelihoods and empower young people to avoid destructive behaviours like drug abuse.
Mr Gurupira’s foray into snail farming was inspired by online research on successful practices in countries like Nigeria and Kenya, which have seen a surge in heliciculture, which is the practice of breeding snails for commercial purposes.
His initiative which has 350 snails already, includes the production of byproducts such as snail gel, used in skincare products and soaps which he is producing, and clothing apparel designs incorporating snail shells.
With additional support, he believes his venture could significantly contribute to local economic development.
“I need capital to get proper licences from authorities like ZimParks, funds to properly register and protect intellectual property rights arising from my project,” said Mr Gurupira, adding: “I also need a bigger space to operate from and to move from my backyard, as well as to employ more young people into my project.”
Globally, the consumption of snails is a thriving industry.
France leads the market, consuming over 22 000 tonnes annually, which is 31 percent of the global total, according to a 2020 market report by Bord Bia, a research and insight centre.
Other top consumers include Spain, Morocco, Portugal and China, collectively accounting for two-thirds of the market.
In West Africa, countries like Ivory Coast consume nearly 8 000 tonnes annually, with Ghana importing snails to meet the growing demand.
Snail farming’s appeal lies in its versatility. The practice yields escargot, a delicacy, snail eggs known as white caviar, and snail slime used in cosmetics.
Snail shells, rich in calcium, are also processed for health products like burn wound plasters.
The environmental benefits of snail farming cannot be overstated. Compared to conventional protein sources like beef or poultry, snails require less land, water, and food, while emitting fewer greenhouse gases. Snail meat is also packed with health benefits, being rich in amino acids, calcium, and magnesium, while low in fat and cholesterol.
Snails and their byproducts have held significant cultural and economic value throughout history.
Archaeological evidence shows snails were consumed as far back as prehistoric times. Snail shells have even served as currency across Asia, Africa, and Europe, with cowrie shells symbolising wealth, fertility, and protection in West African traditions.
Godfrey’s project exemplifies the untapped potential of snail farming in Zimbabwe.
With the right support, he could scale his operations, creating jobs and contributing to a more sustainable economy.
“If granted enough support, my project could help sustain livelihoods and even inspire other young people to become productive,” he said.