Crisis over baobab in Chimanimani as locals feel shortchanged

THE increasing demand for baobab fruits, fuelled by companies producing baobab-based products like juice, oil and powder, has created a crisis in Chimanimani, Manicaland province, as local communities are losing control of this resource.

This is coming as “outsiders” are harvesting the fruit in bulk, leaving locals with minimum benefits coupled with underpayment for their labour.

Despite the potential for economic empowerment, the lack of regulation and fair trade practices has left villagers at a disadvantage.

The baobab tree, often referred to as the “tree of life”, has been a cornerstone of Chimanimani’s ecosystem and livelihoods for generations.

Known for its nutrient-rich fruit, which is high in antioxidants, fiber and vitamin C, the baobab has become a sought-after commodity on both local and international markets.

This surge in demand has been driven by the establishment of a baobab processing plant at Mutare Teachers College by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last year, as well as other enterprises producing baobab-based products.

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The increased demand has brought with it challenges as villages such as Chakohwa, Nyanyadzi and Marange, once rich in baobab trees, are now struggling to sustain their supply.

In an interview with NewsDay Farming, Nhedziwa Farmers Market chairperson Guide Dube said “outsiders”, drawn by the fruit’s growing value, harvest early in the morning, often before locals can access the forests.

“Due to the demand for baobab fruit, people from various areas are invading our forests at odd hours, harvesting the fruit and leaving nothing for the local community,” he said.

“These outsiders come, and after spending the whole day climbing trees and gathering fruits, our farmers are paid just US$2 for an 18kg sack. It’s pathetic.”

Dube added that buyers dictate terms to local farmers, offering as little as between US$1,50 and US$2 for a 20-litre bucket of shelled baobab fruits.

“Imagine the effort and time spent, only to receive such meagre payments,” he said.

“This is exploitation at its worst.”

The situation has also had an environmental impact.

Overharvesting is depleting baobab trees in forested areas, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of this vital resource.

“I come from the Chakohwa area, which is surrounded by baobab trees,” Dube said.

“But you can hardly find fruit there anymore. Outsiders are the ones benefiting, not the local community.”

The exploitation of baobab resources has created tension between the two groups of locals and “outsiders”, with community members feeling marginalised in their own land.

“If we let this go on, there could be conflict between the community and those exploiting our resources.

“It’s only a matter of time.”

While the rise of baobab-based industries presents an opportunity for economic growth, the lack of regulatory oversight and fair trade practices means that locals are unable to fully benefit.

This has led to frustration among farmers who see their efforts undervalued and their resources depleted.

To address the crisis, Dube said various key interventions were key.

Raising community awareness through dialogue and education is seen as a critical first step as well as engaging traditional leaders and local authorities.

This is expected to assist in regulating access to baobab trees and ensure that the community retains control over its resources.

“We need initiatives like Zunde ra Mambo to secure the future of baobab harvesting in Chimanimani. But without land and support, we can’t move forward,” Dube said.

“This resource should benefit our community, not outsiders.

“If we don’t act now, we risk losing not only our livelihoods, but also the heritage of baobab trees.”

The scarcity of baobab fruits in Chimanimani is a wake-up call for all stakeholders.

Without sustainable harvesting practices and proper regulation, the community risks losing a vital resource that has supported generations.

The establishment of baobab-based industries should ideally empower locals, but without the right structures in place, it has only deepened inequalities.

“This is a benefit for the community, but if it’s not managed well, it will harm us more than it helps.”