Chipinge Women Farmers Go Global With Dried Produce
CHIPINGE – Women farmers in Mt Selinda, Chipinge, have transformed their lives and local economy by turning fresh produce into high-value dried goods.
Starting with just four members, the group now boasts 75 women who export to Mozambique and recently represented Zimbabwe at the Osaka Expo in Japan.
With guidance from agricultural experts and the Women and Land in Zimbabwe initiative, the farmers have added value to crops like mangoes, garlic, cassava, sweet potatoes, pineapples, and granadilla fruit.
“We used to lose most of our produce after the harvest season. Now, with the knowledge and support we’ve received, we dry, package and preserve our fruits and vegetables, allowing us to sell all year round and earn more,” said facilitator Mrs Tshiyiwe Sibhula Mhlanga.
Their success grew with the support of the United Nations Development Fund (UNDP) and the Ministry of Women Affairs, which provided a solar dryer.
The group expanded its product range to include instant sweet potato porridge, yam chips, desiccated coconut, and livestock feed made from surplus crops.
Additional income is earned through beadwork and weaving sold across Zimbabwe.
Their journey to export began with an appearance at the Maputo International Trade Fair (FACIM), organized by ZimTrade. Their biggest milestone came when their products were selected for exhibition at Japan’s Osaka Expo.
“Our products are now known in Mozambique. This is a sign that what we are doing here can meet international standards and we hope to start reaching more markets soon,” said Mrs Mhlanga.
Revenue from sales is used to support farming cycles, help families, and educate vulnerable children.
“We make sure everyone benefits. We have even managed to send two girls, who are survivors of gender-based violence, back to school. One is now in Grade 6 and the other in Form 2,” Mrs Mhlanga added.
Mrs Maria Saungweme, who joined the group in 2019, shared, “Life was very difficult when I got married and moved to Mt Selinda from Chiadzwa. But joining this group helped me learn how to grow crops and add value to them.”
Fellow farmer Mrs Joice Shayachimwe said, “We started with basket weaving, then moved to farming. When we began drying and packaging our produce, everything changed. I have managed to educate my children and even support my grandchildren.”
Chipinge District Development Coordinator Mr William Mashava praised the women’s efforts, saying, “Value-added products have higher economic returns. When vegetables are dried and preserved, they can be sold during off-season periods at a better price.”
He noted how rural industrialisation and government support are vital for such breakthroughs, adding, “These women are proof that with the right support and innovation, smallholder farmers in remote areas can compete on the global stage.”
-Herald
