In Zimbabwe, the ambition to leverage the surging global demand for blueberries is being met with financial obstacles, as highlighted by self-funded farmers such as Willard Zireva. These challenges include a pronounced lack of financing and minimal support from the government. Despite a conducive climate propelling Zimbabwe to become one of the top blueberry producers worldwide—with a production increase to 7,000 metric tons—farmers encounter difficulties in obtaining necessary funds for their operations.
The country's horticultural exports, with blueberries as a key component, annually generate over $100 million. However, the sector's growth is hampered by the banking sector's hesitance to finance agricultural ventures, attributed to the instability of land tenure. This situation is particularly problematic for Black farmers aiming for expansion. The issue is compounded by the banks' refusal to accept 99-year leases as collateral and their general reluctance to lend due to historical instances of state land acquisition.
Zireva, who operates Talana farm, has faced these financing hurdles firsthand, relying on personal savings to initiate his blueberry cultivation. The cost of growing blueberries in Zimbabwe is substantial, necessitating at least $100,000 per hectare for importing essential materials and infrastructure. Zireva emphasizes the need for government intervention to provide concessional funding for farmers to tap into the significant demand for blueberries, especially from markets like the United Kingdom and East Asia.
The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) echoes the sentiment regarding the critical need for long-term financing to achieve the goal of doubling blueberry hectarage by 2030. Without such support, the sector's growth and market share are at risk, according to HDC CEO Linda Nielsen.
Source: Reuters