Zambia to start exporting avocados to South Africa

By Bridget Mulilanduba

Government has concluded bilateral negotiations with the South African government on the export of fresh avocado fruits.

Agriculture Minister, Reuben Mtolo says the ministry is working with avocado farmers on ensuring that farmers meet the export conditions stipulated in the agreement.

Mr Mtolo said this in a speech delivered on his behalf by Ministry Acting Permanent Secretary Mwendalubi Msoka during the launch of the partnership with Lusaka Avocado Multi-purpose Cooperative Society in Lusaka.

The Minister said the partnership will support small scale farmers and help create employment in the agribusiness sector.

And Lusaka Avocado Multi-purpose Cooperative Society Board Chairman Bernard Chiwala said some society members intend to start value-addition by packaging avocado oil for use as an edible oil.

Meanwhile, ShopRite General Manager Charles Bota said the company has six local avocado suppliers with 45 tonnes being purchased in the past twelve months.