Zimbabwe crossbreeds local hemp to curb import costs

Agricultural experts and researchers in Zimbabwe are working on innovative research aimed at crossbreeding local hemp genetics with foreign cannabis strains to reduce the high costs associated with importing cannabis products.

The development was shared during the Industrial Hemp and Medicinal Cannabis Field Day, which took place at Thatokuhle Farm in Bulawayo on Tuesday. The event showcased ongoing efforts in the country's burgeoning cannabis industry, focusing on the potential economic benefits of industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis.

Kutsaga Research Station's Kumbirai Mateva, representing the station's Chief Executive Frank Magama, explained that the primary goal is to position Zimbabwe as a leader in the global cannabis market. The research is not only aimed at economic gains but also at promoting sustainable development, empowering farmers, and establishing Zimbabwe as an innovator in cannabis cultivation and product development.

"Our ongoing work in this sector is driven by a vision of placing Zimbabwe as a leader in this high-potential industry," said Mateva. "It's not merely about economic gains but about sustainable development, farmer empowerment, and positioning Zimbabwe as a global innovator in cannabis cultivation and product development."

Mateva shared that Kutsaga Research Station is evaluating foreign hemp genetics to ease the research burden on local farmers. By importing foreign cannabis strains from well-established sources worldwide, the research station ensures that local farmers do not bear the high costs associated with testing new genetics.

"The focus of our organization has been on importing foreign genetics and evaluating these industrial hemp and cannabis strains. This is to ensure that farmers do not have to shoulder the costs of research," said Mateva. "We have been prioritizing the development of local cannabis varieties, sourcing these genetics from places such as Binga, Chimanimani, and Chipinge, among other areas."

Despite the promising potential, Mateva acknowledged that the sector is still facing challenges, including the high costs of seeds due to their importation. However, the development of locally adapted cannabis varieties is seen as a solution to reduce these costs in the long term.

Mateva also emphasized the broader vision for Zimbabwe, drawing parallels with other global regions known for specific products. "What we see here is trying to mirror global recognition, like how France is known for wine, Ethiopia for coffee. Why can't Zimbabwe be known for cannabis?" he asked.

The ongoing research and crossbreeding efforts are set to position Zimbabwe as a leader in the global cannabis industry, not just as a producer but as an innovator in sustainable cultivation and product development. The move is expected to have long-term benefits for the agricultural sector, with the potential to increase farmer incomes, create jobs, and position Zimbabwe as a major player in the global cannabis market.