Story by Gay Matambo
SUGARCANE out-growers in the Lowveld are reaping the benefits of independence, amid numerous opportunities that come with production of the strategic crop.
Before independence, black individuals were marginalised from economic activities, as they did not control the means of production on the land.
Many were limited to low paying farm work, which hindered their educational advancement and capacity to establish businesses.
However, as the country commemorates 45 years of independence this month, a war veteran who is also a successful sugarcane farmer in Hippo valley, , Chiredzi district,
Cde Bornface Mutemachani, says the land reform programme was a turning point in the country’s history as it ensured that more indigenous people had access to land, previously in the hands of the minority rule.
Cde Mutemachani, who is expecting to harvest more than 5 000 tonnes of sugarcane on his 100 hectare piece of land, hailed the Second Republic for widening opportunities for sugarcane out-growers through initiatives such as making sugarcane a strategic crop.
“We went to war and came back, and we thought having our own land was a dream,” he said.
“We were mainly fighting for freedom from colonial bondage and our land. We got land in 2 000 and let me say, our lives have transformed. I had nothing, I used to herd cattle for people, but now I have my own piece of land. At first, I was allocated 18 hectares, and my hectarage has grown to 100 hectares, and that is all thanks to the Second Republic, which has seen my dedication towards farming and is supporting me.
“I have achieved a lot through farming, and even my fellow comrades in the same industry are doing well. We can now purchase livestock, farm machinery, and even empowering my children. I am a happy man.”
Apart from being a successful sugarcane farmer, Cde Mutemachani is also popular for challenging youths to play their part in safeguarding the gains of the liberation struggle while emphasising the importance of Zimbabwe’s ethos and values.
“Well we learn a lot from Cde Mutemachani, he is always talking about what transpired during the war, the importance of our land, and he is always teaching us the importance of safeguarding the country’s sovereignty. I have learnt a lot from him, and in terms of farming, he is good at what he does. He is particular about saving, he says we should invest more than spending,” Sugarcane Outgrower, Mrs Caroline Mutemachani said.
The sugar industry in Zimbabwe consists of over 1 200 indigenous commercial sugarcane farmers, and they account for close to 40 % of Zimbabwe’s total sugar cane production.
