Towards Reducing Food Waste in Zimbabwe: A Case of the Small Holder Food Value Chain in Zvishavane District, Zimbabwe.

Abstract

Zimbabwe suffers food and nutrition insecurity due to the effects of climate induced droughts, food waste, and mid-season dry spells. The study was conducted in support of Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, UN SGDs and Africa Agenda 2063, whose general aim is to ensure food security for all people. The study investigated opportunities for reducing food waste in Zvishavane district by applying the Closed-loop Secular Economy theory. Qualitative data was collected through interviews, observation and documents reviews. Data was gathered from fruit and vegetable vendors, smallholder producers in the rural areas, as well as from food scientists at a local university. Findings confirmed high levels of food waste at fruit and vegetable markets, vending points, as well as at smallholder farms. Mangoes, bananas, amarula fruit, Uapaca kirkiana, guava, watermelons, tomatoes, banana, and cabbage were the worst wasted food. The study recommends low-cost methods of preserving food using solar energy. Value addition and value preservation of food could be in the form snacks, bottled fruit juices or processed animal, poultry, and fish feeds.