Sesame programme empowers 7 800 farmers
AT least 7 800 farmers are set to benefit from a sesame programme being implemented by the Government in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP).
Funded by a Japanese initiative, the programme aligns with the Government’s commitment to supporting farmers affected by climatic shocks and chronic food insecurity. It aims to enhance resilience, promote sustainable agricultural practices in vulnerable communities, and foster a more food-secure future.
Last year, 3 000 farmers in Mwenezi and Chiredzi benefited from the programme. They produced over 200 tonnes of sesame, including 151 tonnes exported to Japan through ITOCHU Corporation.
Speaking at the inception workshop on the Strengthening Rural Development Initiative, WFP Country Director Mrs Barbara Clemens said the programme would significantly improve livelihoods.
“This isn’t just a win for exports—it’s a demonstration of resilience in action. This current season, we’ve scaled up to over 7 800 farmers across Chiredzi, Mwenezi, and Rushinga, with a projected yield of over 2 500 tonnes. These are not just numbers; they represent real incomes, real dignity, and growing rural economies,” she said.
The programme also builds on other critical areas of WFP support. WFP is training more than 330 Government extension officers in climate-informed agricultural planning through the PICSA approach, which now reaches over 25 000 farmers. Additionally, the organisation is rolling out the Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) model to over 1,000 farmers in eight districts to build market literacy. Financial literacy enables farmers to produce for markets, plan, save, and invest for the future.
Participants at the workshop noted that some smallholder farmers, particularly sesame producers, were facing challenges in accessing lucrative markets or exporting their crop.
Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) Marketing and Public Relations Manager, Ms Tina Nleya, said they were linking farmers with various buyers.
“We advise farmers on what is in demand on the market. We train them to treat farming as a business so it becomes viable. We also help farmers access export markets. The major challenge is the issue of numbers. The market requires consistent supply and large volumes. We are encouraging farmers to form clusters and aggregate their produce to meet the volumes required for markets such as China,” she said.
SAT Deputy General Manager, Mr Lloyd Masunda, said the private sector had a greater role to play in sesame production than merely acting as off-takers. He noted that much of the sesame being produced was being smuggled and sold through informal markets.
“Some farmers are not aware of market requirements. There is a lot of information they need before they begin production. There is a need for the Government and private sector to work together to address several gaps in the value chain,” he said.
Mr Masunda also urged authorities to establish mechanisms that simplify the export process for farmers. He said the current system was complex, making it difficult for many smallholder farmers to export their produce.
Ministry of Women Affairs Mashonaland Central Provincial Development Officer, Mrs Judith Hove, said they had personnel at ground level — experts at ward and district levels (business development officers) — who assist communities in growing their businesses.
“We provide training in business management, including financial literacy, pricing, costing, and record keeping. We also ensure they are equipped with practical skills. We maintain a database of trainers who can help community members acquire various skills to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods,” she said.-herald
