MARTIN MAWAYA
HARARE – Zimbabwe’s horticulture sector is on a trajectory of significant growth, with the government setting its sights on a $2 billion target for the subsector by 2030.
This was revealed by Agriculture Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri.
Jiri highlighted that the country has recorded substantial growth in key areas of the horticulture industry.
The blueberry sector has seen a 7% growth, while the pecan nut subsector has experienced a remarkable 12% increase.
This growth has translated into impressive figures as the country exported 1,100 metric tonnes of pecan nuts and 8,500 metric tonnes of high-quality blueberries, Jiri said.
To build on this momentum, the government has announced plans to review the Zimbabwe Horticulture Recovery and Growth Plan for the period 2026-2030.
The focus will be on capitalizing on the growth areas and addressing underperforming sectors.
“The review will allow us to concentrate on the areas that have shown growth and re-evaluate the sectors where the industry has not performed as well,” Jiri explained.
The horticulture sector plays a vital role in Zimbabwe’s economy, and the government’s commitment to its expansion is expected to create new opportunities for farmers, exporters, and the broader agricultural community.
