The Hauna banana processing plant, a pioneering facility in Manicaland province, is poised for its operational debut in November. Recognized for producing premium bananas, Honde Valley's farmers have historically grappled with market access challenges and the perishable nature of their produce, often resulting in undervaluation at market points.
Constructed with the backing of the Women Affairs, Community and Small to Medium Enterprises ministry, the facility aims to enhance the longevity of bananas and other horticultural products by offering preservation methods including freezing, canning, and drying. This initiative is expected to mitigate food waste by processing fruits that are either damaged or unsold in their fresh form.
Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Misheck Mugadza highlighted the plant's role in promoting value addition, food security, and economic development within the region. "By establishing this processing plant, we are not only providing a sustainable and transformative solution for our local farmers, but also promoting value-addition, enhancing food security and driving economic growth in the region," Mugadza stated. The project is set to directly support 600 farmers, with indirect benefits extending to over 2,000 individuals across Mutasa, Nyanga, and surrounding districts.
Mutasa North legislator Obey Bvute underscored the national significance of the plant, linking it to broader goals of food security and economic empowerment. Local stakeholders, including farmers, have expressed optimism regarding the plant's capacity to alleviate prevalent market and logistical hurdles. Mercy Chohwa, a local banana farmer, cited the reduction in transportation costs and the potential for increased profitability as key benefits.
The US$450,000 investment in the banana processing facility is part of a larger strategy aimed at bolstering agricultural value addition across the region, complementing similar initiatives like the avocado oil plant in Mutare and the forthcoming macadamia processing plant in Chipinge.
Source: NewsDay