Roseline Mutare
A high powered delegation, led by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious Masuka, alongside the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, embarked on an inspiring development tour in Mwenezi District of Masvingo Province.
During their visit, the ministers were captivated by the remarkable progress unfolding within the agricultural sector, particularly highlighted by the impressive Mwenezi Citrus Project. This sprawling citrus plantation, stretching an expansive 9 kilometers and boasting over 500,000 thriving citrus trees, is dedicated to the production of oranges destined for lucrative international markets in Europe, and Asia.
Minister Masuka passionately urged local farmers to unite and collaborate with the Makata Citrus management, underscoring the critical importance of inclusive development and the active involvement of the community in high-value crop cultivation.
“By concentrating on high-value crops like citrus, we can dramatically enhance the livelihoods of our farmers and significantly contribute to the economic growth of our nation. We wholeheartedly encourage local farmers to seize the opportunities presented by initiatives such as the Mwenezi Citrus Project and to explore innovative ventures and partnerships,” said Masuka.
With an ambitious goal of producing a tremendous two million cartons of oranges daily within the next five years, the project is already making a substantial impact on the local economy. Currently, 130 local residents have gained employment at the farm, and as the project continues to expand, an additional 1,000 jobs are anticipated.
In a bid to further bolster agricultural output, plans are underway to expand citrus and sugarcane farming across the vast 19,000 hectares in the fertile Nuanetsi Ranch of Masvingo Province, backed by both government support and private investment.
“We have already cleared land for 400 hectares, with 250 hectares currently dedicated to orange cultivation. By the end of the year, we project to have the entire 400 hectares operational,” Masuka revealed.
The ministers also took the time to visit an innovative sesame processing and training facility in the region, where local artisans are transforming sesame and paprika into high-quality oil, showcasing the potential of value-added agriculture in enriching the local community.
