By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
BEITBRIDGE – TOPPICK Investments, a wholly-owned indigenous agribusiness in Beitbridge, is preparing to break into the export market for citrus fruit as production continues to grow despite drought-related setbacks.
The company, which hosted a provincial media tour led by Hon Dr Omphile Marupi is the Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services and Mr Ndabaningi Nick Mangwana is the permanent secretary for ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, has established 800 hectares of citrus orchards, mainly oranges, and 200 hectares of wheat under irrigation from Zhove Dam.
This season, TOPPICK harvested 500 tonnes of oranges, down from expectations due to water shortages, but is projecting a bumper 3,000-tonne crop in the future.
The fruit is currently supplied to juicing companies such as Schweppes, with plans to penetrate export markets once a planned three-line sorting machine is installed.
“Our vision is to export high-quality citrus. We are investing in processing equipment to meet international standards,” Chief Operations Manager, Moyo Danisa.
“This is a long-term venture, and patience is key for any aspiring farmer.”
The company also runs a 200-hectare wheat project under a contract farming arrangement with the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA), which supplies inputs and will purchase the harvest. Yields are expected to reach five tonnes per hectare, with leftover grain distributed to surrounding communities.
In addition to crops, TOPPICK keeps 1,500 cattle and has built a 50-million-litre reservoir to secure water supplies. During the peak harvest season, the business employs up to 500 seasonal workers, alongside 200 permanent staff.
Moyo noted that insect infestations during the flowering stage remain a challenge, and the company is investing in insect traps to protect yields.
He also reflected on the cost of sustaining production during last year’s drought, when Zhove Dam’s water levels dropped significantly, forcing additional capital spending to draw water from the dam.
“Farming is a long journey that demands resilience and investment,” Moyo added. “The returns come, but only if you are willing to stay the course.”