Verdant Orchards secures USD 40M for Southern African agricultural expansion

SOUTHERN AFRICA – Verdant Orchards, a prominent agribusiness in Southern Africa, has successfully raised over USD 40 million from Denmark’s IFU (Investment Fund for Developing Countries) and South Africa’s Fedgroup.

This substantial funding will allow Verdant to expand its agricultural footprint across Mozambique, Zambia, and South Africa, enhancing its orchards and production facilities.

In Mozambique, Verdant Orchards will increase its Verdant Citrus Massingir farm to 450 hectares of citrus orchards in Gaza Province by 2025. This expansion aims to boost citrus production, which remains a highly demanded export crop.

Zambia will see the development of a 360-hectare avocado orchard, Verdant Orchards Munyati, set to be completed by mid-2026. With rising global demand for avocados, the Munyati orchard is expected to position Zambia as a prominent avocado producer in Africa.

In South Africa, Verdant has recently acquired the Noordgrens farm in Limpopo, adding 800 hectares of orchards and a modern packing facility.

The acquisition also includes a share in a well-established fruit marketing business, strengthening Verdant’s access to both local and global markets.

Strategic investment for Southern African agriculture

“This successful fundraising round was made possible thanks to strong backing from IFU and Fedgroup,” said Barry Hawke, Verdant Orchards’ Chief Investment Officer.

“Their support not only strengthens our capital base but accelerates our strategic growth, helping us become a leading player in Southern African agriculture.”

Peter Hardgrove, IFU’s senior investment manager for sustainable food systems, emphasized IFU’s enthusiasm for the partnership.

“Agriculture is a critical sector for economic growth and food security in Africa, and we believe these projects will create lasting positive impacts on both local economies and international markets,” he said.

Warren Winchester, General Manager of Fedgroup’s Ventures division, highlighted Fedgroup’s commitment to Verdant’s sustainability goals. “Our funding for Verdant Orchards goes beyond financial support. It reflects our deep commitment to advancing agriculture and promoting sustainable development.”

“This partnership aligns with Fedgroup’s broader mission of creating a more resilient and sustainable food system, one that prioritizes innovation, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.”

Fostering sustainable agriculture and community impact

Established in 2019, Verdant Orchards has grown into a major player in the agricultural sector, producing high-value crops like citrus, avocados, and macadamia nuts.

The company focuses on establishing perennial orchards that create jobs, support local economies, and adopt sustainable practices.

Verdant Orchards’ projects bring multiple benefits to the region, including job creation and community development.

By integrating environmentally friendly practices, the company not only strengthens its agricultural production but also promotes a positive impact on the local communities in which it operates.

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