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Samuel Kadungure, Manicaland Bureau 

NESTLED in the captivating landscapes of Zimbabwe, Chipinge district reveals itself as a land of remarkable diversity, where nature and human ingenuity converge. This extraordinary region can be defined by two distinct ecological realms: the verdant southern expanse, adorned with a warm climate and bountiful rainfall, creates the perfect conditions for thriving agriculture, while the arid northern reaches, regrettably unsuitable for crop production, present a contrasting portrait of resilience in the face of adversity.

It is a tapestry woven by its inhabitants. According to the enlightening data from the 2022 Population and Housing Census, Chipinge shelters a community of 375 259 souls, inhabiting an expansive territory of 5 220 square kilometres. The district’s density, at 71,88 individuals per square kilometre, reflects the harmonious coexistence of its people.

The district’s population is surging forth, steadily ascending from 267 256 in 2002 to 298 841 in 2012. This remarkable growth continues unabated, with an annual population change of 2,4 percent propelling Chipinge’s populace to a remarkable 375 259 in 2022. Unquestionably, the majority of these spirited souls find solace and sustenance in the district’s idyllic rural expanses.

Within the mosaic of Chipinge, the urban core thrives as a testament to progress and ambition. Chipinge urban, an enclave of 34 959 people, flourishes within a compact territory of 28,59 square kilometres. This bustling hub showcases the dynamic spirit that pervades the district, where innovation and tradition merge seamlessly.

Director for Economic Development in the office of the Permanent Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr  Munyaradzi Rubaya said though information about Chipinge GDP was not readily available, the district’s economy was anchored on agriculture.

“At the moment we do not have GDPs for districts. It is something we are pushing to have, so that information is not readily available. It is actually a constraint to us,” he said.

Renowned for its sprawling tea and coffee plantations, Chipinge’s fertile lands also yield a prosperous harvest of macadamia nuts, cotton and bananas. Notably, commercial farmers venture into sugarcane and ethanol production, forging new frontiers in sustainable agriculture. The luscious macadamia nuts, predominantly destined for South Africa and China, serve as ambassadors of Chipinge’s fine produce. Additionally, the district stands tall as one of Manicaland’s primary maize bastions, bolstering regional food security.

Amid this economic symphony, Mr Rubaya candidly addresses the complexities of quantifying Chipinge’s economic might, disclosing the absence of district-specific GDP figures. Nevertheless, undeterred by this constraint, he sheds light on Manicaland’s provincial GDP, amounting to a noteworthy US$1,46 billion, which constitutes a respectable six percent of the national GDP. This intriguing statistic is juxtaposed by the revealing per capita GDP for Manicaland, standing at US$743, indicating both untapped potential and resilient determination.

While Chipinge’s economic narrative unfolds with aplomb, it is essential not to overlook the arteries that connect its bustling communities. The district’s road network boasts a commendable state overall; however, Mr Rubaya highlights the significance of the Chipinge-Mt Selinda Road. Serving as a vital economic lifeline, this road interlinks the district’s agricultural heartland with bustling markets and forms a critical conduit to neighbouring Mozambique. 

“There is need to attend to it because it is an economic road linking the main agricultural hub and the market. The road also links us with Mozambique. The district has some of the biggest and viable irrigation schemes in the province like Maunganidze Irrigation Scheme, Chibuwe, Mutema, Musikavanhu and Bwedzura Irrigation Scheme, among others, which produce an assortment of horticultural crops,” said Mr Rubaya.

Chipinge’s rich tapestry also has captivating landmarks that define its cultural heritage. Standing proudly as an emblem of architectural marvel, the famous Birchenough Bridge graces the district, connecting communities and serving as a symbol of progress and connectivity. 

The Ndau cultural heritage permeates the air, preserving age-old traditions and captivating the hearts of both residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the enchanting Chirinda Forests beckon nature enthusiasts with their verdant beauty, acting as the district’s prized tourist attraction.

In Chipinge, the pages of history intertwine with the aspirations of its people, forging a vibrant narrative of resilience and growth. The district’s fertile soils, teeming with agricultural abundance, serve as the backbone of its economy, while its close-knit communities flourish amid a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. Chipinge beckons adventurers, scholars and dreamers to uncover the hidden gems that lie within, embracing the spirit of unity, innovation, and cultural preservation.