Discover Chiparawe Farm: Zimbabwe's innovative agro-tourism destination blending agriculture, tourism, and media production. Experience immersive farm activities, adventure sports, and corporate retreats just outside Harare. Learn how entrepreneur Russo created a sustainable business model through incremental growth and strategic integration of multiple ventures.
Just a short drive out of Harare city center, lies a seamless blend of agriculture, tourism, and media production. Chiparawe is not an ordinary farm but a place where an entrepreneur, Russo, has crafted an innovative business model in the competitive tourism landscape. It stands as a gem hidden away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The Business Pivot
Russo capitalized on Zimbabwe's growing interest in experiential tourism to add a portfolio to his agricultural and media ventures. According to recent industry reports, agro-tourism has seen a 27% growth across Southern Africa in the past five years, with visitors increasingly seeking authentic experiences over conventional hospitality.
Creating a Unique Value Proposition
Chiparawe Farm distinguishes itself in a fast-growing resort market through its educational component. While competitors offer standard amenities, Russo's operation provides visitors with immersive farm experiences alongside recreational activities like quad biking, ziplining, canoeing, and hiking. "Tourists want more than just accommodation, they want enriching experiences they can learn from and share."
This insight has translated into multiple revenue streams comprising day visitors participating in farm tours, overnight guests, corporate retreats, and educational programs for schools. "Our guests leave Chiparawe not only rejuvenated but with some farming knowledge, be it on tobacco, maize production or cattle ranching," Russo emphasized.
Operational Integration: The Studio-Farm Synergy
There is genius in how Russo has created synergies between his media production business and agro-tourism operations. The Way2Nice recording studio, now strategically located at the farm, continues to produce commercial jingles and corporate content. However, it now offers corporate clients an added value proposition of creative brainstorming sessions in a tranquil farm setting. "Our media clients experience increased productivity here because the environment stimulates a different thinking pattern," Russo explained. Thanks to advanced technology, he is now able to collaborate with clients and send media files anywhere in the world from the rural setting.
Overcoming Rural Business Challenges
Russo is candid about the obstacles faced in developing a farm-based business, such as the poor road network which can deter some visitors. He also highlights regulatory hurdles where registering the tourism business has been an unreasonably long and arduous process requiring persistent follow-ups. This is a common challenge for entrepreneurs in emerging markets where technological adoption has been slow and existing systems are inefficient.
Financial Strategy: Sustainable Growth
Russo's sworn mantra is "Toti, toti asi zvichitofamba," which translates to tiny progressive actions compound to significant progress. "I am not enthusiastic about grand long-term plans because they can be overwhelming and discouraging. I make achievable weekly targets. Even if I buy something small like a new chair in a week at the end of the year I would have made significant progress."
His strategic partnership with his father has also been a source of mentorship and occasional capital infusion, creating a sustainable model that balances immediate needs with long-term vision. He consistently reinvests revenue from both the media and agricultural operations to grow the tourism business.
Just start where you are, with the resources that you have
A Different Measure of Success
Living away from the urban center has transformed Russo's perspective on success and fulfillment. "The city keeps you in a constant state of wanting more," Russo observed. "Here, I have learnt to appreciate what is essential." The farm has become a classroom not just for visitors but for Russo as well and it has taught him patience, resilience, and the value of simplicity. The simpler farm life has revealed to him how some "necessities" were actually luxuries that put unnecessary pressure on him. The business has fostered maturity and forward-thinking in Russo, particularly regarding retirement planning, as he embraces peace and simplicity over urban complexity.
Russo advises aspiring entrepreneurs to be prepared for significant sacrifices, including solitude and potentially losing some friends. His core advice remains consistent from our last interview 5 years ago, “Just start where you are, with the resources that you have.”
The Hidden Gem
In a world obsessed with urban development and technological advancement, Chiparawe Farm stands as a place one can reconnect with nature and the simple joy of experiencing something real. For those willing to venture beyond the city confines and for entrepreneurs seeking inspiration, a hidden gem awaits!
