ZIMBABWE became one of the first countries in Africa to legalise the production of medicinal cannabis in 2018, hoping for a fresh income stream of badly needed hard currency.
It issued 57 licenses with a few positive strides in the hemp farming prospects like the commissioning of a US$27 million Swiss Bioceuticals Limited Medicinal Cannabis Farm and Processing Plant in Mashonaland West Province.
Last year, Zimbabwe alone exported about three tonnes of industrial hemp to Europe although most farmers are in a commercial trial phase. Only 15 of the 57 cannabis permits issued by the Zimbabwe government since 2018 have been activated, while some of the licences were returned.
To this end, the Daily News will be hosting the Zimbabwe Cannabis Business Symposium on the 25th of July to provide government, health, and medical regulatory bodies, communities, health professionals, businesses, investors, captains of industry, and scholars with insightful sectorial trends, and highlights on challenges and opportunities within hemp and medicinal cannabis farming and processing.
To get more insights about the symposium and the Hemp industry our Group Features Editor, Beaven Dhliwayo sat down with the founder and chief executive officer of the Zimbabwe Industrial Hep Trust, Zorodzai Maroveke.
Below are the excerpts from the interview.
Q: Briefly give us your background. Who is Maroveke?
A: Zorodzai Maroveke is the founder of the Zimbabwe Industrial Hemp Trust (ZIHT). I am a Dental surgeon by profession but I found my passion in Hemp. I believe I can contribute significantly to nation-building through the development and establishment of different hemp value chains and utilizing innovative agricultural practices to improve the socio-economic and environmental status of vulnerable communities in Zimbabwe.
Q: What was your inspiration to venture into the Hemp industry in Zimbabwe?
A: My inspiration was driven by the size of the Hemp industry in China. The immense potential hemp cultivation holds in transforming the economy and livelihoods. Hemp is a versatile crop that can address various economic and environmental challenges. I saw an opportunity to promote sustainable agriculture and create wealth for Farmers and other players through the value chains.
Q: Tell us what motivated you to start the Zimbabwe Industrial Hemp Trust (ZIHT).
A: The motivation behind starting ZIHT was to create a structured approach to lobbying efforts and developing the hemp industry in Zimbabwe. I wanted to ensure that the industry is developed responsibly and sustainably. ZIHT aims to provide support and entry into the burgeoning by all stakeholders, especially farmers.
Q: What does ZIHT do and what impact do you want to achieve in the Hemp industry in Zimbabwe?
A: ZIHT focuses on 5 key areas: Lobbying and advocacy, education & Awareness, research & development, Climate Action and Investment promotion. We aim to create a robust hemp industry that contributes to economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social empowerment. Our goal is to establish Zimbabwe as a leading producer with at least 100 000 ha by 2026 , of high-quality hemp products, creating jobs and improving livelihoods in the process.
Q: What are the biggest challenges facing the Hemp industry and how are you planning to address them?
A: The biggest challenges that the industry faces are the wide knowledge and information gaps deterring many players. Lack of localized expertise, technology, and most importantly funding for research and development. To address these, ZIHT is working closely with the government and other stakeholders to accelerate the development of a strong foundation for the industry through R&D. We are also planning to conduct awareness campaigns, provide training programs, and seek partnerships with financial institutions to support hemp-related projects.
Q: How has Zimbabwe fared in the Hemp industry and what needs to be done?
A: Zimbabwe has made significant strides in the hemp industry, with the legalization of hemp cultivation being a major milestone. However, there is still much to be done in terms of building infrastructure, providing education, and establishing market connections.
