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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
OPERATIONS at the Mbvelelo mopani worm processing plant in Matshiloni, Beitbridge District, Matabeleland South, have ground to a halt due to a scarcity of mopane worms. Efforts are underway to diversify operations to include processing and packaging other products such as dried vegetables, matemba, and beans to revive the facility.
Established in September 2019, the plant became a lifeline for the local community, creating employment for over 12 people and supporting 18 members under the Rovhona Raita Co-operative. However, operations ceased last year due to dwindling supplies of mopane worms, a result of climate change and other factors.
Mbvelelo (Pvt) Ltd board member Mrs Fadzai Muvhango said there is a need for the plant to be revived as many families were dependent on it.
“When this project came, it transformed our lives. We could support our families and send our children to school. Many of us, especially widows, found a solution to our problems through this initiative,” she said.
“Now, with mopane worms in short supply, we are left desperate. The machinery and plant are there, and it would bring us great relief to see them functional again.”
Another member, Ms Felile Khosa shared similar sentiments, noting that mopane worms have been a critical source of livelihood for decades.
“We used to buy mopane worms from surrounding areas for processing, but now they are unavailable. Families that relied on this income are struggling,” she said.
Matabeleland South provincial development co-ordinator in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Mrs Merjury Sikundla, said there is a need to keep the plant operational.
She said diversifying its operations will restore its role as a community empowerment hub.
“When this plant was established, it was meant to empower women and youth, benefiting the entire community. The scarcity of amacimbi has disrupted operations for two consecutive seasons,” she said.
“We cannot let this facility go to waste. Plans are underway to introduce alternative products like dried vegetables, matemba, and beans to ensure the plant serves its purpose.”
The Mbvelelo plant, the first mopane worm processing facility in Zimbabwe, was established by the Government in partnership with development partners. It aligns with the Second Republic’s drive to promote value addition and beneficiation in rural communities.
Equipped with modern machinery sourced from China, including a washing machine, dryer, bleaching, and packaging machines, the facility also boasts a solar-powered well, a reservoir, and a business hub offering training and services to the community. – @DubeMatutu
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