Story by Fungai Jachi
MORE than 14 000 smallholder farmers across Zimbabwe have ventured into sesame production, with this year’s harvest expected to surpass 1 000 metric tonnes targeted for the export market.
A sesame processing plant established in 2023 is now servicing thousands of growers who bring their harvest for processing, value addition and export to regional and international markets, including Japan, India, Turkey and China.
For the farmers, the emerging sesame value chain represents not only increased earnings but also a more sustainable economic future.
Farmer, Mr Daniel Lamula, said the initiative has transformed how the crop is marketed.
“As sesame farmers, we are delighted with this development. Previously, our crop went mostly to illegal buyers across the border. Now, as shareholders in this plant, our produce is processed here, sold properly and earns us much more,” he said.
Another farmer, Ms Keresina Chigara said the project has improved household incomes and created access to foreign currency.
“Through the Sesame Growers Association, we have secured foreign currency earnings. This allows us to send our children to school and improve our livelihoods,” she noted.
Traditional leader Chief Neshuro, Mr Rodwell Gudo said the project has brought significant economic change to the community.
“This has really changed the livelihoods of the people of Mwenezi because we used to be shortchanged, but now we are getting value from our produce,” he said.
The facility forms part of a US$1 million multi-service centre spearheaded by Sustainable Agriculture Technology (SAT) in partnership with the Government, which is opening new markets while creating jobs and strengthening rural industrialisation.
SAT Deputy Country Director, Mr Lloyd Masunda, said sesame exports have grown rapidly since the project began.
“In our first year, we exported 212 tonnes. By the second year, we reached 378 tonnes, and this year we are targeting 1 200 tonnes, which is an upward shift. We now work with more than 14 000 farmers, and even the export market has increased. We are looking to expand the plant for other traditional grains. We also value adding by producing cooling oil, but it is still for the local market,” he said.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, said the initiative is contributing to economic development in the province.
“We are pleased because these projects are benefiting the locals and helping in the rural industrialisation drive. Our province’s GDP is increasing, and communities are being empowered. We are grateful that the government is coming up with these initiatives, which are helping local communities.”
With the Rutenga Processing Plant providing a ready market and linking farmers to global buyers, Mwenezi is fast emerging as a hub for rural industrialisation, accelerating the Government’s Vision 2030 agenda of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy.
