EXPERTS UNLOCK HONDE VALLEY’S AGRI-TOURISM POTENTIAL

The mist-shrouded peaks and emerald plantations of the Honde Valley have become the focal point of a strategic mission this week as ZimTrade, in partnership with experts from PUM Netherlands (PUM.nl), engages with the region’s agricultural and tourism sectors.

This collaborative effort brings together government departments, commercial estates, and small-scale producers to modernize value chains for tea, banana, coffee, and avocado—crops that form the economic bedrock of this unique Eastern Highlands corridor.

Tucked away in Zimbabwe’s Region 1, the Honde Valley is blessed with a tropical microclimate and consistent rainfall, making it a “low-risk, high-return frontier” for horticultural production. However, the mission led by ZimTrade and PUM.nl aims to move beyond primary production toward high-value exportation. By engaging directly with farmers in Hauna and surrounding areas, the PUM experts are providing technical insights into international standards, organic certifications, and value-addition techniques. The goal is to transform local produce—such as the valley’s famed organic bananas and premium Hass avocados—into export-ready products capable of competing in lucrative European and Asian markets.

A key highlight of the engagement is the exploration of “Agro-Tourism” and eco-tourism synergies. The Honde Valley is uniquely positioned where industrial-scale agriculture meets pristine nature. Iconic locations like the Aberfoyle Tea Estate and the Mutarazi Falls already demonstrate how rolling tea fields and cascading waterfalls can create a world-class experiential travel destination. By strengthening the collaboration between agricultural value chains and the hospitality sector, the mission seeks to unlock new revenue streams for the community. Visitors to the valley aren’t just looking for scenic views; they are increasingly seeking immersive “farm-to-fork” experiences, birding in tea forests, and cultural exchanges within the banana plantations.

This initiative is a critical step in achieving Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes rural industrialization and the diversification of exports. By leveraging PUM’s global expertise in small and medium enterprise (SME) development, ZimTrade is helping local producers navigate the complexities of global logistics and quality control. As the experts conclude their week-long engagement, the focus shifts toward implementing a roadmap that integrates the valley’s agricultural abundance with its majestic eco-tourism assets. The result will be a more resilient local economy that not only feeds the nation but also invites the world to discover the hidden wonders of the Honde Valley.