Zimbabwe’s blueberry industry is gaining global recognition, ranking among the top five exporters worldwide. With early harvests, high-quality fruit, and increasing demand, the sector is driving economic growth, creating rural jobs, and showcasing the potential of Zimbabwean agriculture.
Sharleen Mohammed
Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports are gaining international attention, with the country now ranked among the world’s top five producers.
Each year, the country exports 8,000 to 10 000 metric tonnes of blueberries to overseas markets, taking advantage of its early harvest window and ideal climate to earn foreign currency and create local jobs.
Speaking on the sidelines of World Blueberry Day, marked on Juli 8, Permanent secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, said this achievement shows how agriculture is changing lives in Zimbabwe.
“We have a climate that gives us a competitive edge.” Said Professor Jiri.
He added: “Zimbabwe enters the world market about two weeks earlier than countries like Peru. That means our farmers can sell their blueberries at higher price before other countries flood the market.”
According to the permanent secretary, the quality of Zimbabwean blueberries is also high, giving the country an extra advantage in global trade.
“Our blueberries are known for their sweetness, firmness, and freshness. Many buyers are now preferring Zimbabwean fruit over some Southern American varieties,” he added.
The growth of the blueberry industry is creating many opportunities for locals. It is providing jobs for women and youth in rural areas, where most of the farmers are based.
“This sector is not just about exports, it is about changing lives.
“We are seeing rural communities benefiting from employment, training and infrastructure development,” said Professor Jiri.
He added that the success of the blueberries shows what is possible when government, private sector, and farmers work together.
“This is a perfect example of how targeted investment and policy support can deliver real results.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and blueberries are now a shining example of what Zimbabwe can achieve,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s blueberry boom is also helping the country earn much-needed foreign currency, strengthening the economy and supporting national development goals.
“Blueberries are bringing in foreign currency, supporting our economy, and putting Zimbabwe on the map. We are proud of this progress, and we are working to grow the sector even more,” he explained.
With global demand still raising, Zimbabwe’s blueberry industry is expected to expand further, bringing more income and opportunities to farmers and the country at large.
