‘Matabeleland has huge potential for horticulture’

Judith Phiri

Business Reporter

FARMERS in Matabeleland have been urged to tap into horticulture export markets as growing demand for horticultural produce presents huge opportunities.

Horticulture remains one of Zimbabwe’s most promising sectors, contributing substantially to export earnings.

The horticultural sector is diverse, encompassing a range of fruits, vegetables and specialty crops.

Key fruits include grapes, tree nuts (like pecan and macadamia), blueberries, avocados and citrus.

Vegetables are also a major part of the sector, with common crops like tomatoes, cabbages, green leaf vegetables, onions and potatoes. Specialty crops like peas, beans, garlic and chili are also cultivated for local and export markets.

In an interview, Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Matabeleland Chapter past vice president and businessman, Mr Louis Herbst, said the industry was a crucial part of Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape, significantly contributing to the growth of the sector and the broader economy.

“It enhances diversification by focusing on fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants, reducing reliance on traditional staples like maize and tobacco. This diversification improves resilience to climate shocks and market fluctuations,” he said.

“The sector also creates numerous employment opportunities across the value chain, particularly in rural areas, and has strong export potential for products such as citrus, avocados, and flowers, generating vital foreign currency.”

He said horticulture also supported food security and nutrition by increasing the availability of fresh produce and encouraged innovation through the adoption of modern farming technologies, which also further stimulated economic growth.

Mr Herbst said that as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) becomes a reality, Zimbabwe and neighbouring smaller economies must explore innovative methods to contribute to the gross domestic product (GDP) and remain competitive on the continent.

“Leveraging horticulture and other industries will be essential for expanding market access, fostering intra-Africa trade, and building resilient economies.”

He said the Matabeleland region climate and readily available land presented a significant potential for horticultural development, while harnessing drought-resistant crops and innovative irrigation methods could help increase productivity in the region despite semi-arid conditions.

Mr Herbst said developing infrastructure, such as packing facilities and cold storage, will facilitate access to regional and international markets.

He added: “Promoting value addition through local processing can boost product value and create more jobs. Investing in capacity building and adopting modern agricultural practices will improve yields and quality.

Public-private partnerships can support infrastructure development, funding mobilisation, and market linkages, while engaging with regional and international markets will open export opportunities, especially for organic and specialty produce.”

Local agronomist, Leo Maphosa, said farmers in the region could grow crops such as cucumber, eggplant, watermelon, butternut, and sweet pepper, among other horticulture crops.

“These have a ready market and can bring quick returns. The horticulture industry offers a pathway for Zimbabwe to diversify its agriculture, generate employment and boost economic growth,” he said.

“For Matabeleland, strategic investments and innovative approaches tailored to its unique conditions can position the region as a key player in the country’s horticultural export sector and contribute meaningfully to continental trade.”

Economic analyst Mr Reginald Shoko said the horticulture sector was crucial for agricultural development, economic growth, and food security.

“It provides nutrient-rich foods, generates high income, and supports sustainable intensification, making it vital for adapting agriculture to population growth and environmental challenges.

“The Matabeleland farmers need to jump into the mix for the development of the region and personal incomes,” he said.

In response to the industry’s growth, the Second Republic has launched various initiatives to increase the sector’s productivity and improve access to international markets.

The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) has also participated in various leading international trade shows for the horticulture sector to explore the latest developments, investment opportunities and partnerships in the sector.

According to data presented by the HDC, the sector can expand the area under horticulture from 90 000 hectares to over 132 000 ha.

Fresh produce alone is expected to contribute US$1,38 billion in export revenue annually, supporting over 378 000 jobs.

The sector has the potential to generate US$2,4 billion worth of exports annually if about US$800 million is invested in the sector.

The export potential, revealed in the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency’s (ZIDA) first quarter 2025 report, can also create about 586 650 jobs across the value chain.

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