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Kudakwashe Chidziya Manicaland Correspondent
CHININGU honey processing centre in Nyanga has recorded sales in excess of RTGS $4 500 within its first year of production.

The beekeeping project, which was implemented in 12 wards in Nyanga South and involves more than 1 050 farmers in the area, has benefited more than 40 families so far.

Apiculture has been embraced in the district due to the vast forests which are strategic for hives.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs, Dr Ellen Gwaradzimba, at the official opening of the centre last week, Member of Parliament for Nyanga South constituency Cde Supa Mandiwanzira said the honey processing centre was among the most promising community sustainable projects in the district aimed at empowering women and the girl child.

“On average, one hive produces 30kg which is sold at RTGS$5 per kg,” he said.

“I am glad to announce that the beekeepers managed to sell honey worth RTGS$4 500 within their first year of production, which is a remarkable achievement.

“The involvement of women and youths, especially girls, in the beekeeping project is a noble idea since the project is gender sensitive.”

The processing centre is targeting the international market as a way of generating foreign currency for both the beneficiaries and the country.

“I assure you that we are in the process of linking the centre with viable markets such as starafrica corporation which supplies some of our largest retail chain stores in Zimbabwe,” said Cde Mandiwanzira.

Speaking on behalf of Manicaland provincial agricultural officer Mrs Phillipa Rwambiwa at the same event, her deputy, Mr Joseph Mukajame, said the honey processing centre was aimed at increasing value addition in rural areas through commercial projects.

“We want to empower women and communities through agricultural projects in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra, ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’ as well as aiming towards attaining a middle income economy by the year 2030,” he said.

Traditional leader Chief Hata said the honey processing centre had already made a huge difference in the community.

“Our youths have been empowered and I would like to thank everyone for supporting this project which has already benefited hundreds of families,” he said.

Several stakeholders and civic society organisations that assisted in the construction of the processing centre such as IRC, Cesvi, CIMMTY, Bio-hub Trust and Matopos Research Institute (MRI) attended the event.