Drought halts operations at mopane worm processing plant

Operations at the Mbvelelo Mopani Worm Processing Plant in Matshiloni, Beitbridge District, have come to a standstill due to a significant shortage of mopane worms, a vital raw material for the facility. Established in September 2019, the plant had initially become a key player in the local community by creating employment for over 12 people and supporting 18 members of the Rovhona Raita Co-operative.

However, production ceased last year due to dwindling supplies of mopane worms, largely attributed to climate change and other environmental factors. This has left many families dependent on the plant for income in a state of uncertainty.

Mrs. Fadzai Muvhango, a board member of Mbvelelo (Pvt) Ltd, emphasized the importance of reviving the plant, which had been a lifeline for many families in the area. "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."

Ms. Felile Khosa, another member of the co-operative, echoed similar concerns. She highlighted how 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, stressed the importance of keeping the plant operational. She noted that diversifying the plant's operations will help revive 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 (mopane worms) has disrupted operations for two consecutive seasons," Mrs. Sikundla 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 was the first mopane worm processing facility in Zimbabwe and was established through a partnership between the Government and development partners. The plant was aligned with the Second Republic's vision of promoting value addition and beneficiation in rural communities.

Equipped with modern machinery sourced from China, including washing machines, dryers, 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.

With efforts now underway to diversify production, there is hope that the Mbvelelo plant will once again become a cornerstone of local development, providing a sustainable source of income for the community despite the challenges posed by the mopane worm shortage.