Article

The Second Republic of Zimbabwe will enhance rural industrialisation to improve local economies, as stated by Acting President Kembo Mohadi. During a visit to the Mapfura/Marula beneficiation plant in Mwenezi, he emphasized the need for local value addition to resources.

The plant, established in 2021, processes 100 tonnes of mapfura/marula fruit per season, sourced from over 1,000 farmers, generating an average annual income of US$55,000 for the community. The processed products are sold locally and exported.

The initiative aligns with the National Development Strategy 2, aiming to create industries in rural areas and attract foreign currency. The Mapfura/Marula plant employs 153 people and serves as a model for rural industrialisation.

Mwenezi is evolving into a value-addition hub for various products. The government is also developing hydro power plants to support industrialisation efforts.