The increasing global integration of economics, markets, and cultures has played a significant role in the development and growth of the flower and fresh produce industries. With the introduction of innovative technologies and modern farming methods, these sectors are poised for further expansion, particularly in Africa.
Evolution of the Flower and Fresh Produce Industry
Over the years, the technologies and processes used to maintain flowers and fresh produce have greatly advanced. Key innovations include improvements in storage, packaging, and the use of vaccines to maintain freshness and prevent disease and pests during production and distribution.
The global fresh flower market has seen steady growth, driven by high demand for floral arrangements at events and for home decoration. Flowers are now key elements in personal expression and social engagement, offering a meaningful way to celebrate special occasions, convey emotions, and honor the deceased at funerals. They are also increasingly recognized for their environmental benefits, including their ability to purify the air and their healing properties.
As demand grows, the flower sector is expected to yield higher profits. Major players in the fresh flower market, such as Dummen Orange, Syngenta Flowers, and Finlay Flowers, have been instrumental in driving innovation and expanding access to flowers worldwide. The Middle East and Africa have shown strong growth potential, with greenhouse farming methods and favorable climates supporting the expansion of flower farming in these regions.
In Zimbabwe, floriculture played a significant role in the economy in the early 2000s. In 2001, Zimbabwe was the second-largest exporter of flowers in Africa, following Kenya. However, the land reform program in the early 2000s displaced many white floriculturists, leading to a temporary decline in the industry. Many of these professionals relocated to countries like Zambia, which has since benefited significantly from the floriculture sector. Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe has the potential to regain its position in the global flower industry, given the right expertise, funding, and commitment.
Overview of the Fresh Produce Sector in Africa
In addition to flowers, the fresh produce sector in Africa has seen a rise in investment and growth due to the introduction of innovative farming techniques, tools, and technologies. Governments, NGOs, and private entities have collaborated to improve the agricultural landscape, with events and exhibitions providing platforms for knowledge exchange among farming experts.
In Zimbabwe, the fresh produce market is valued at over USD $2 billion, with significant room for further growth. Despite setbacks caused by the land reform program, the sector has been recovering steadily. One notable player in this recovery is KUMINDA, a fast-growing farming company in the fresh produce sector, led by CEO Clarence Mwale. Kuminda has been a key advocate for agricultural growth in Zimbabwe, providing small-scale farmers with essential inputs such as tools, seeds, chemicals, and fertilizers to ensure their success.
In an interview, Mwale shared that Kuminda not only supplies inputs but also helps farmers gain international recognition. “Through our compliance and audit support business, Fair Mark, we train farmers to achieve Global GAP certification, manage compliance, and ensure quality. Our goal is to help farmers produce high-quality crops while adhering to international standards,” Mwale said.
Background and Achievements: Kuminda Corporation
Kuminda, a company founded by Clarence Mwale, started from humble beginnings. Mwale often reflects on how working with small and medium enterprises can elevate the agricultural sector in Africa. The name “Kuminda” is derived from the Shona word meaning “at the farms,” a rebranding from his previous firm, “Tuminda,” which he operated for nearly two decades.
Mwale’s journey began around 2009 with a single client, Shaun Philp, who later recommended him to other local and international farmers. Despite facing numerous challenges, Mwale succeeded in establishing his company on the global map. In 2023, he rebranded the firm to Kuminda to reflect its growth and expanded vision.
Kuminda now employs over 60 people, with more than 90% of its workforce being women. The company has positively impacted the Zimbabwean community by creating jobs, offering industrial attachments for agricultural students, boosting the local economy, and helping small-scale farmers access international markets.
Kuminda has introduced innovative farming techniques, including the cultivation of Fruit Vision blueberries, making it the first farming entity in Zimbabwe to grow blueberries on around 20 hectares of land. The company also produces high-quality sugar beans and has partnered with Seedco and Magamba Vocational Training Centre to expand its exports to the European Union and the UK.
Innovative Farming and Preservation Techniques in Africa
Across Africa, farmers have increasingly adopted new tools, technologies, and farming practices to ensure sustainable income and enhance business efficiency in both the flower and fresh produce sectors.
One major innovation is the use of cold chain solutions, which preserve produce post-harvest and during transportation. A report by the United Nations and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlighted significant food losses in Africa due to inadequate refrigeration and storage facilities. Cold chain logistics can help save around 144 tons of food each year, improving food security and reducing waste in the agricultural sector. Both Zimbabwe and Kenya have embraced these solutions to preserve and export produce.
Internationally, Chrysal, a leader in flower care, has introduced adhesive transport stickers that help maintain flower freshness during transit. These stickers release active ingredients when humidity exceeds 60% in flower boxes, ensuring that flowers arrive at their destination in optimal condition. This innovation was showcased at the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show in October 2024 in Atlanta, USA.
Additionally, major agricultural events such as the Afmass Food and Manufacturing Expo in Nairobi, Kenya, and the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) provide platforms for farmers and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, showcase new farming methods, and explore opportunities for growth.
Challenges and Solutions in Floriculture and Horticulture Production
Despite the progress, the floriculture and fresh produce sectors face challenges such as climate change, pests, and pathogens. However, new farming techniques like climate-smart agriculture (CSA), which improves productivity and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, are helping to mitigate these challenges. The use of drones and sensors to monitor crops for inefficiencies and resource needs is also improving farm management practices.
The Future of the Flower and Fresh Produce Industry in Africa
As demand for flowers and fresh produce continues to grow, many investors and stakeholders are showing interest in developing Africa’s agricultural sector. The expansion of this industry is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce poverty.
Livelihoods expert Antony Maina believes that Africa’s fresh produce sector is still in its early stages but has immense potential for growth. “Africa’s fruit and vegetable (F&V) processing industry is in its infancy, but there’s a promising future ahead. Urbanization and rising incomes present opportunities to add value to F&V through processing,” he said.
As urbanization continues and demand for healthy produce like fruits and vegetables grows—especially in response to rising chronic diseases—the flower and fresh produce sectors in Africa are well-positioned for success in the coming years.
