Staff Reporter
Zimbabwean avocado farmers are poised to tap into new international markets, particularly China and India, as they ramp up production and exports in response to rising global demand.
Cicada Katiyo Estate in Manicaland Province is among the key players eyeing these opportunities, bolstered by the recent expansion of its avocado and macadamia operations.
During his recent visit to Cicada Katiyo Estate, Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, commended the estate's progress, highlighting the impact of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which paves the way for avocado exports to China.
"We are pleased with the advancements here, particularly following the MOU with China. The quality of our products, including avocados, is world-class, and the demand is high. Additionally, the oil processing plant in Mutare is reaping the benefits from this estate," Minister Mugadza remarked.
Cicada Katiyo Estate has allocated 300 hectares to avocado cultivation and 193 hectares to macadamia, a move supported by investments encouraged under Zimbabwe's Second Republic.
The estate’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Brendon Scott, expressed optimism about meeting the growing global demand for these crops.
"Currently, we are producing 400 tonnes of avocados, and we anticipate increasing output to 1 600 tonnes in the coming years, with a target of 6 000 tonnes within four years. Our macadamia production is still in the early stages, but we aim to reach hundreds of tonnes next year and 1000 tonnes within five years," Scott said.
The newly signed MOU with China is seen as a major boost for local producers, offering a significant new market for Zimbabwean avocados.
Scott noted that with the European market already saturated, the expansion into China is a crucial step in diversifying export destinations and enhancing the country's agricultural sector.
"We are thrilled that Zimbabwe has secured access to the Chinese market. China represents a new frontier for our avocados, and we will soon be applying to the Indian embassy to explore opportunities in the Indian market as well," Scott added.
Commenting on the developments, Coalition of Agricultural Graduates of Zimbabwe Founder and National Chairperson, Dickson Kubvakacha, said, “The expansion of avocado and macadamia farming is a game-changer for Zimbabwe's horticulture sector. We are not just increasing production but also positioning ourselves as key players in the global market. This growth is expected to significantly enhance our export revenues and provide much-needed economic stability and job creation in the agricultural industry for years to come.”.
As Zimbabwe continues to explore new avenues for agricultural exports, producers like Cicada Katiyo Estate are well-positioned to leverage global demand, driving economic growth and enhancing the country's export portfolio.
