Midlands Peas Cluster reaps US$400k export proceeds

THE Midlands Peas Cluster has increased its production capacity riding on the growing demand for the product in the global market where it has exported nearly 200 tonnes worth US$400 000 in the last two seasons.

The country’s trade development and promotion agency, ZimTrade, introduced the export cluster initiative in 2022 following a directive by President Mnangagwa to ensure that every province contributes to economic growth through exports.

The cluster initiative covers different sectors including honey production, arts and crafts and the horticulture sector.

The Midlands Peas Cluster is made up of a group of horticulture farmers who jointly produce top-quality mange tout and sugar snap peas and flowers for exports.

It comprises about 15 farmers within a 30-kilometre radius of Gweru town, who are specialising in the production of mange tout and sugar snap peas, two premium varieties that are highly sought after, particularly in international markets.

In a statement, ZimTrade said the Government’s nationwide programme of integrating all communities into mainstream export business continues to bear fruit with smallholder farmers in the Midlands province growing their peas exports to Europe.

“Over the past two seasons, the cluster has collectively exported more than 200 tonnes, valued at over US$400 000.

“With increased demand, the group has increased their production, creating additional employment for communities around Gweru, which has provided stable sources of income for families and improved livelihoods,” said the agency.

The success of the cluster in growing peas for exports is a result of a combination of favourable growing conditions in the Midlands region and the farmers’ dedication to maintaining high agricultural standards.

Commenting on the development, ZimTrade southern region manager, Mrs Jacqueline Nyathi, said the collaboration within the cluster, which brings together diverse skills, expertise and resources, along with the support provided by ZimTrade and its partners, has successfully enabled smallholder farmers to engage in exporting.

“The remarkable success achieved by Midlands smallholder peas growers in unlocking access to export markets is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our group,” said Mrs Nyathi.

“We have worked tirelessly as a strong, cohesive unit, strategically leveraging the unique advantages that each member brings to the table.

“This collective effort has been the cornerstone of our success, allowing us to meet and exceed the stringent demands of international markets.”

Going forward, Mrs Nyathi said they will continue working with the cluster to expand their reach by integrating more farmers into their cluster, particularly smallholder farmers.

“By doing so, we aim to enhance their contribution to the national horticulture export sector, ensuring the benefits of this growth are shared across the community,” she said.

Ms Chipo Kurwaisimba, one of the smallholder farmers, said production of export-earmarked peas has transformed their lives and the cluster programme has improved their capacities.

“For us, peas farming has been more than just a source of income, as it has been a pathway to a better life by allowing us to improve our living standards,” she said.

“For example, we have increased the number of boreholes on our farms and equipped them with submersible pumps, which has in turn, expanded our cultivation areas, leading to even greater returns.

“By pooling resources, we have been able to reduce costs related to transport, electricity and other costs and this mutual support is vital for sustaining our farming efforts.”

The farmers said the collective approach makes it easier for them to meet the quantities required by the market, ensuring they remain competitive and reliable suppliers.

As more farmers witness the success of the cluster, there has been a noticeable increase in interest and participation.

The cluster has attracted interest from other smallholder farmers looking to explore export markets. The growing membership is expected to further strengthen the cluster’s capacity, enabling it to increase production volumes and expand its market reach.

According to Trade Map, around US$431 million worth of peas was imported across the world in 2023, with the biggest exporters being European countries such as Belgium, France and Spain, among others.

Over the last five years, African countries like Kenya have increased exports, with Zimbabwe asserting itself as a reliable exporter of peas. Sugar snap and mange tout peas are the most common varieties grown in Zimbabwe and these are some of the highly sought-after varieties from developing countries in international markets such as Europe. — chronicles