Zimbabwe’s blueberry sub-sector is experiencing rapid growth, buoyed by rising global demand, favourable climatic conditions and a competitive export window that positions the country as a premium supplier.
Mashonaland East Province has strengthened its status as the nation’s leading producer of the high-value crop, with farmers steadily expanding hectarage and achieving stronger yields season after season.
Wiserow Enterprises in Marondera, which ventured into production in 2017 has significantly scaled up operations, growing its blueberry fields from 12 hectares to 69 hectares, with a further 16 hectares set for planting this year. Output has risen sharply from 12 tonnes per hectare to at least 20 tonnes per hectare in the current season.
“Once planted, one can start production within the first year. The yield per hectare depends on the variety. Some varieties can produce more than 20 or even 30 tonnes per hectare, while others yield 12 to 14 tonnes. We are harvesting 69 hectares this season and expanding by 16 hectares in April, with more growth projected. The market has been increasing by 11 percent annually since 2018, and Zimbabwe has not yet matched that pace, meaning there is still huge room for expansion,” said Wiserow Enterprises junior manager, Mr Mark Swaneporl.
Government has commended the sector’s progress and encouraged financial institutions to channel more support toward horticulture, citing its strong export potential and ability to earn foreign currency.
“In blueberry production, Zimbabwe benefits from a marketing window that gives us both comparative and competitive advantage. Our deliveries reach markets early, while producers such as Peru and Morocco come in later. We also boast favourable climate conditions that deliver top-quality berries. Mashonaland East leads with about 550 hectares under production, supported by 16 farmers doing exceptionally well.
“We are seeing rapid expansion and we urge new farmers and financiers to come on board. There is vast market demand in Asia and Europe, making this a lucrative sector. We are pleased with yield improvements from 13 tonnes to 22 tonnes per hectare,” said Mashonaland East Acting Provincial Director for Agricultural Rural Development and Advisory Services, Mr Calisto Masiiwa.
Within Mashonaland East, Goromonzi remains the top-producing district, followed by Marondera and Seke.
As Zimbabwe pushes to diversify its agricultural base beyond traditional crops, blueberries are emerging as a promising major foreign currency earner, strengthening the country’s horticultural footprint on global markets.
