Zimbabwe’s Blueberry Sector Earns Global Recognition

By Edward Makuzva

What began as a modest agricultural experiment just a few years ago has blossomed into a global success story.

Zimbabwe’s blueberry industry is now earning international acclaim for its exceptional quality, strategic market timing, and rapid expansion.

With over 8,000 hectares under cultivation and exports reaching up to 10,000 tons annually, the country has firmly established itself among the world’s top blueberry producers.

As Zimbabwe marks its place on the global horticultural map, the journey of the blueberry—from seedling to supermarket shelf—is one of resilience, innovation, and growing economic promise.

In an interview with Zimba Wave News, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Prof. Dr. Obert Jiri, noted that what started as a modest trial with limited acreage has now blossomed into a thriving industry—one that has earned Zimbabwe a spot among the top five global producers of the coveted Bluebell blueberry variety.

“We started small, just a few hectares at first. But the results were promising, and the climate was incredibly supportive.

Today, more than 8,000 hectares across the country are dedicated to Bluebell cultivation.

The growth, both in scale and quality, has been nothing short of phenomenal.

“Zimbabwe’s unique advantage lies in timing. While Peru remains one of the world’s top blueberry producers, Zimbabwean blueberries enter the global market two weeks earlier, giving local farmers a strategic edge.

Even better, they linger on the shelves two weeks after the main producers have exited, allowing Zimbabwean berries to enjoy a longer and more profitable marketing window.

“But it’s not just timing that sets them apart.

Our quality is exceptional. Even when compared to global leaders like Peru, Zimbabwe’s blueberries stand out in flavor, size, and shelf life,” the grower said.

“This has put us in high demand in international markets,” Prof. Jiri explained.

The Permanent Secretary highlighted that, as the world marks International Blueberry Day, Zimbabwe has every reason to celebrate.

What began as a cautious venture five to seven years ago has now become a key contributor to national exports.

Already exporting between 8,000 and 10,000 tons annually, the country is aiming to push blueberries’ contribution to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to US$2 billion shortly.

He added that investment interest is rising rapidly, with both local and international players looking to expand operations.

“The potential is huge, especially as younger blueberry plants mature, producing bigger fruit and higher yields.

In the next two to three years, we’re expecting even more established plantations, which will significantly boost output,” said Prof. Jiri.

However, success has not come without challenges. Prof. Jiri revealed that infrastructure remains a pressing issue.

“Cold chain facilities are critical—not just on the farms, but also at key export points like the airport. Without proper cooling, handling, and storage, these delicate fruits can bruise easily and lose value.

“Transport logistics are another concern. Remember, some of the blueberries are transported via air, so we need support from the Air Force.

But some are even transported by road to South Africa. And so we need good roads,” he said.