Zimbabwe farmers produce more blueberries and pecan nuts during the 2023/24 growing season despite drought challenges across the country. Blueberry production jumped to 8,500 tonnes from 7,944 tonnes during the previous year. Pecan nut output rose to 1,100 tonnes from 983 tonnes marking strong increases for both crops. The two commodities earned farmers a combined 66 million dollars through export sales to international markets. Agriculture Secretary Professor Obert Jiri credits the growth to farmer resilience and better farming methods.
Horticulture contracts increased 27 percent as more farmers joined successful production programs across Zimbabwe. The government's five-year horticulture recovery plan nears completion after helping rebuild the damaged sector. Blueberry production gained seven percent during the season demonstrating steady growth for the premium fruit crop. Pecan nut farming expanded 12 percent as producers mastered growing techniques for the valuable tree nuts. Officials say the sector has fully recovered from previous problems and shows excellent potential.
Future growth depends on government support for transport systems and infrastructure development across farming regions. Jiri wants better roads to move fresh produce quickly to local and international markets. Air transport needs improvement to ship delicate fruits before they spoil during long journeys. The next five years promise exciting opportunities for avocado, apple, and onion production expansion. Zimbabwe horticulture can maintain its growth pattern with proper backing from all government departments.
Horticulture contracts increased 27 percent as more farmers joined successful production programs across Zimbabwe. The government's five-year horticulture recovery plan nears completion after helping rebuild the damaged sector. Blueberry production gained seven percent during the season demonstrating steady growth for the premium fruit crop. Pecan nut farming expanded 12 percent as producers mastered growing techniques for the valuable tree nuts. Officials say the sector has fully recovered from previous problems and shows excellent potential.
Future growth depends on government support for transport systems and infrastructure development across farming regions. Jiri wants better roads to move fresh produce quickly to local and international markets. Air transport needs improvement to ship delicate fruits before they spoil during long journeys. The next five years promise exciting opportunities for avocado, apple, and onion production expansion. Zimbabwe horticulture can maintain its growth pattern with proper backing from all government departments.
