By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru-Midlands Province, Zimbabwe, is being touted as a prime investment location for leather production, thanks to its strong cattle production sector.
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Anxious Masuka, recently highlighted the province’s potential, ranking it second in cattle production among Zimbabwe’s ten provinces. He urged investors to capitalize on this strength during an investment program held in the region.
“The Midlands is not just a hub for cattle farming; it is a cornerstone of our economy,” Minister Masuka stated. “With our abundant pastures and skilled farmers, we have the potential to lead the nation in leather production,” he said, while emphasizing the need for investment in value-added industries to fully leverage the province’s resources.
The call for investment comes at a time when the province is seeking to diversify its agricultural portfolio. While historically a leader in cotton production, Midlands Province has seen a decline in recent rankings. The Minister acknowledged the challenges and called for collaborative efforts to revitalize the cotton sector through innovative farming techniques and sustainable practices.
Adding to the positive outlook for the region, Minister Masuka announced that the Kwekwe silo construction project is nearing completion, currently at 97%. This state-of-the-art facility boasts advanced ventilation systems capable of preserving grain for 10 to 15 years. “This silo will not only enhance our grain storage capacity but will also play a crucial role in ensuring food security for our communities,” he explained. The silo is expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses, providing farmers with a reliable means of storing their produce and stabilizing market prices.
Minister Masuka gave emphasis to the importance of collaboration between the government, farmers, and investors to maximize the potential of the Midlands’ agricultural sector. The vision has resonated with local farmers and business leaders, who are eager to explore opportunities in the leather production sector.
As one local farmer representative stated, “Investing in leather production not only adds value to our cattle but also opens up new markets for our products. We are ready to partner with investors to make this vision a reality.
With the agricultural sector at a pivotal moment, the Minister’s call to action seeks to unite stakeholders in revitalizing and diversifying the province’s agricultural output. With strategic investments and a commitment to innovation, the Midlands can reclaim its leadership in cattle and cotton production, securing a prosperous future for its agricultural communities.
Minister of Agriculture, Anxious Masuku stressing a point
