Staff Reporter

The coffee industry in Manicaland has become a symbol of economic prosperity through its thriving production, as Nespresso, an American company, intends to purchase its coffee.

According to a source within the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, coffee cultivation in Chipinge has significantly contributed to the nation's economic growth, providing employment opportunities for citizens across the country.

The same source emphasised that the booming coffee industry has become a beacon of hope for Zimbabwe's economic resurgence. He added that the employment generated by coffee farms has positively impacted countless lives, reflecting a tangible improvement in the livelihoods of many Zimbabweans.

"The success of coffee production in Chipinge has been a pivotal force in our economic recovery. It has not only created employment but has also injected vitality into the overall economic landscape of Zimbabwe," the source said.

However, amidst the success story, the source revealed that there were attempts by certain hostile elements to tarnish the image of coffee farms in Chipinge and Mutasa districts in Manicaland.

The source claimed that the motivation behind these efforts was the fear that Zimbabwe's high-quality coffee production was on the verge of attracting international investors.

"Our concern is that these external agents are spreading misinformation about the coffee farms. This is not just an attack on the industry; it's an attack on the livelihoods of countless Zimbabweans who have found employment in this flourishing sector," the source asserted.

The source further addressed the allegations of labour abuse on the coffee farms.

"Claims of labour abuse are entirely baseless. Our investigations reveal that all employees are above the age of 18, and we uphold strict ethical standards to ensure a fair and safe working environment," the source stated.

One of the farm managers at the coffee farms, Talent Sangwenya, confided in this publication that it was a lie that the farms were employing underage personnel.

"We take pride in upholding ethical standards and providing our workers with a safe and supportive workplace," Sangwenya affirmed.

Meanwhile, the high-quality coffee produced in Chipinge is poised to attract investors from around the world, providing a substantial boost to the nation's economy.