Sustainable agricultural practices in Zimbabwe: the case of Greenstone Foods and Mdusoutpost

As part of a mission to strengthen sustainable agricultural practices in Zimbabwe, Greenstone Foods and Mdusoutpost have received targeted technical support to implement GLOBALG.A.P. standards through the FFM+ programme. This post-training support enables them to structure their activities with a view to certification and access to international markets.

Mdusoutpost: laying the foundations for future exports

Mdusoutpost is a farm specialising in the production of tomatoes, onions and cabbages. Looking to enter the UK and EU markets with snow peas and sugar snap peas, the company set out to align itself with GLOBALG.A.P.’s requirements. Assistance began with an assessment of compliance gaps, followed by a tailored action plan. However, implementation of these standards has faced several obstacles, including a lack of prior experience and external disruptions related to the encroachment of artisanal miners on farmland. Despite these challenges, Mdusoutpost is making progress and benefiting from ongoing support, particularly in risk assessment and the application of compliance procedures.

Greenstone Foods: strengthening sustainable production

Already well established in the export market with its organic pineapples distributed through Eosta BV, Greenstone Foods is looking to expand its producer base and diversify its offering. Its commitment to sustainable and climate-smart agriculture puts it in a good position to obtain GLOBALG.A.P. certification. The technical assistance focused on reviewing the existing systems, refining the action plan and identifying areas for improvement, particularly in internal auditing and risk assessment. With a committed team and strong leadership, Greenstone Foods is moving towards certification and considering the integration of new crops such as quinoa and millet for the European market.

Outlook and next steps

For Mdusoutpost, continued support is needed to implement the necessary corrective actions and overcome environmental difficulties. For its part, Greenstone Foods is working to complete its certification process and explore new business opportunities.

These two companies illustrate the dynamics of agricultural transformation in Zimbabwe, where the adoption of international standards is contributing to more sustainable production and better integration into world markets. Technical support and ongoing training will enable them to achieve their goals and accelerate their growth in a responsible and sustainable manner.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.