Potential of Natural Dye Processing in Matabeleland South Province: Case Study of Masendu Ward, Bulilima-Mangwe District, Zimbabwe.

Abstract

Synthetic dyes are non-biodegradable. There is a quest in the dyeing industry to replace these with natural dyes. The availability of raw material is a pre-requisite is assessing the manufacturing of any product. This paper outlines the results of a survey to determine the availability and distribution of natural dye trees in in Zimbabwe’s Bulilima-Mangwe District. Other plant uses are highlighted. Fifty-eight different plant species were identified. Forty one and fifty-nine percent of the plant species are dye and non-dye plants respectively. With improved technology and commercialisation technics, the district will benefit from the natural dye business venture.