Zimbabwe rises to 5th place in Africa for avocado production  

This follows significant production over the past six years. New figures show that the country grew over 125,000 tonnes of avocados in the 2023/2024 farming season, more than double what it produced in 2017.

This growth has been driven by more investment in farming by both the government and private companies.

Much of the avocado farming is happening in the Manicaland region, especially around the town of Chipinge.

The Horticultural Development Council, which helps develop fruit and vegetable farming in Zimbabwe, said the country is doing well because of smart investment and stronger ties with other countries.

“After a tough dry season, nothing says resilience like Zimbabwean avocados being packed for export,” it added.

Zimbabwe recently signed a deal with China that allows the export of fresh avocados there. This deal is one of many signed between Zimbabwe and China, local reports indicate.

Two test shipments are expected to leave for China soon. Zimbabwe is also talking to India about selling avocados, citrus fruits, and blueberries there.

More avocado trees are being planted across the country, with around 1,500 hectares in 2017 to nearly 2,750 hectares today.

Only about 60 percent of the avocados grown in Zimbabwe meet the standards for export. The rest could be used locally to make other products, like avocado oil or guacamole.

The country hopes that by growing more fruit and finding new markets, it can boost its economy and create more jobs. The avocado sector is seen as one of the most exciting areas for growth.