Horticulture revival welcome

EDITOR — It is a relief to discover that the horticultural industry is set for revival.

The Europe-Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Liaison Committee (COLEACP) is working to revive the horticultural sector and improve producers’ access to domestic and international markets.

Horticultural products have traditionally accounted for a large share of Zimbabwe’s export markets.

Entire orchards were destroyed and the incessant rains decimated what remained. Many trees were cut down and burnt for fuel. Rehabilitation of the horticultural sector will provide high-value crops for smallholder Zimbabwean farmers, increase opportunities for value-added production and expand export markets.

Fruit trees will take time to multiply, distribute and to reach maturity for maximum production. Replacing derelict orchards takes several years and farmers need training in advanced horticultural techniques to improve their quality, yields and incomes.

However, the potential in future markets and revenues will be worth the wait; we look forward to the launch of Zimbabwe edition of the horticultural improvement which is particularly appropriate for Zimbabwe.

Horticulture is labour intensive, providing jobs for the youth and also inter-cropping vegetables with fruit trees provides optimal use of scarce water.

Raymond Tatire, Mazowe.