Empowering Women And Youth Through Bean Value Addition In Zimbabwe
In the verdant landscapes of Nyanga, Manicaland Province, over 100 farmers, predominantly women and youth, gathered at Samanyika Primary School in October 2025 for a transformative training dedicated to bean value addition, nutrition, and entrepreneurship. This initiative is part of the broader Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation – TAAT II (TAAT II) project, a collaborative effort led by Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development via the Directorate of Research Education and Specialist Services (D’RESS), in partnership with Cluster Agricultural Development Services (CADS).
Beans have long served as a staple crop in rural Zimbabwe, providing a dependable source of both nutrition and income. Yet, many smallholder farmers typically sell their beans raw, thereby forfeiting potential gains from processing and marketing. The TAAT II programme seeks to change this narrative by equipping rural households with skills to move beyond cultivation into value addition — transforming ordinary sugar beans, small white beans, and red speckled beans into nutritious, consumer-ready products.
Bean value addition: transforming nutrition and livelihoods
High Iron Beans (HIBs) play a central role in this initiative. Varieties such as NUA674, NUA45, Sweet Violet, and Jasmine are rich in iron, zinc, and protein, effectively addressing hidden hunger issues prevalent across Zimbabwe. As Shylet Tsekenedza, Bean Breeder at the Crop Breeding Institute (CBI), highlighted, “High iron beans are more than just a crop — they are a solution to hidden hunger and a pathway to prosperity. Through TAAT, we are empowering farmers, especially women and youth, to produce nutritious beans and explore new value-added products that meet market demand.”
The value addition process diversifies household diets, boosts food security, and fosters microenterprise development. These enterprises are well-positioned to supply local markets, schools, and community canteens, harmonising with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) priorities of inclusive economic growth and improved nutrition.From field to table: recipes that transform lives
The training was hands-on, with participants mastering recipes that include porridges, soups, spreads, snacks, flours, and ready-to-cook bean mixes. One remarkable feature was the creation of innovative products such as NUA45 bean yogurt, jambalaya, bean balls, fritters, and a nutrient-rich baobab drink. These preparations do not only enhance the palatability of beans but also add commercial value.
Local women and youth were encouraged to think entrepreneurially. The sessions went beyond cooking to encompass business development, product innovation, and market access strategies. Focus group discussions facilitated the collection of participant insights, which will guide future support services in branding and small business skills. This approach ensures that women and young participants take leadership roles in advancing bean-based enterprises.
Zimbabwean case study: Nyanga’s transformation through bean innovation
Mrs Gumiso, a farmer and bean breeder in Samanyika Ward 13, testimonies the tangible impact of the project. She explained how seed multiplication knowledge gained through TAAT II has revitalised community farming practices. Calculating that 100 kilograms of beans sold at $1.60 per kilogram yields $160, scaling to one tonne per hectare results in an income of $1,600 per hectare — a substantial boost to family livelihoods.
Mrs Ednah Murenzvi reflected, “Growing up, we only knew beans as a basic food, but today we’ve learnt that NUA45 beans are highly nutritious and versatile. We can now make yogurts, traditional drinks, jambalaya, bean balls, and so much more. This knowledge has empowered us as women and our families to innovate, create value, and see new opportunities in what we grow.”
Similarly, youth participant Aaron Bvepferere expressed newfound optimism: “Today I’ve discovered that NUA45 beans are more than just an ordinary crop. They are a source of nutrition and opportunity. I never imagined we could make products like yogurts and traditional drinks from beans. This training has opened my eyes to the many ways we can add value and earn a living.”
Promoting sustainable agricultural practices
The TAAT II bean programme also integrates Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), including the application of herbicides, seed dressings, and fertilisers to optimise yields and improve seed quality. These agronomic advances complement nutrition and entrepreneurial training, creating a holistic support system that empowers smallholder farmers.
Chairing the CADS delegation, Lilian Machivenyika underscored the importance of collaboration. “Working with the Department of Research and Specialist Services (DR&SS), we aim to advance the value addition of NUA45 beans, a crop rich in essential nutrients. Our engagement with the Nyanga community demonstrates how inclusive partnerships can drive innovation and nutrition improvement.”
The way forward: women and youth leading bean innovation in Zimbabwe
With continuous skills development, expanded seed access, and entrepreneurial support, Zimbabwe’s women and youth are poised to spearhead a new era of bean innovation. This initiative aligns with the Zimbabwe National Development Strategy 1’s focus on economic diversification, gender empowerment, and nutrition improvement.
The transformation of beans from a humble staple to a versatile, marketable commodity is not just a triumph for farmers in Manicaland but a beacon for rural communities across Zimbabwe. As farmer-entrepreneurs gain knowledge and confidence, they pave the way for food security, economic growth, and community resilience.
FFA Explainer box: What is value addition?
Value addition in agriculture refers to the processes that increase a product’s value, such as processing, packaging, branding, and developing new products. This not only boosts farmers’ incomes but also enhances food quality and marketability.FFA Explainer box: Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
GAP encompasses the methods and standards for crop production to ensure food safety, quality, and environmental sustainability. This includes appropriate use of herbicides, fertilisers, pest management, and seed treatment.
Through initiatives like TAAT II, Zimbabwe continues to transform its agricultural sector — empowering women and youth to innovate with crops like beans, thereby building healthier communities and sustainable economies.
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