Asia Edition
Zimbabwe’s government is trying to increase sector performance with the launch of the US$30 million Horticulture Export Revolving Fund (HERF). This should enhance horticulture's contribution to the growth of the country's export earnings and economic growth. The fund is supported through the Special Drawing Rights (SDR) funding the country received from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Dr John Basera recently confirmed the availability of the funding to support horticultural farmers and those involved in exports. He cited blueberries as an example horticultural crops whose production the country needed to expand since they are high value crops that do well under the Zimbabwean climate and soil conditions.
The country exported 4,700 tons of blueberries to Europe, the Middle East and other markets last year. There are also plans to increase this output by the end of this year.
Source: herald.co.zw
