Commercial Assessment of Horned Melon (Cucumis metuliferus) Cultivation in Local Economic Development and Social Well- being in Rural Livelihood of Zimbabwe

Horned melon shows substantial potential for agricultural progress and improved climate resilience within Zimbabwe. While its cultivation by small-scale farmers in Mashonaland East is expanding, its wider economic and community contributions have yet to be thoroughly investigated.

To address this gap, a mixed-methods study was undertaken in ward 20, 21 and 27 of Mutoko district, involving 135 randomly selected smallholder farmers. Data were collected via interviews, observations and semi-structured questionnaires, with quantitative data subsequently analyzed using SPSS.

A key finding revealed a strong positive Pearson correlation (r = 0.801) between perceived income benefits and the land area allocated to horned melon, indicating that economic incentives are primary drivers of cultivation decisions. Farmers reported an average market price of USD 75.00 per 50 kg bag, with typical seasonal sales ranging from 15 to 18 sacks; however, a positively skewed distribution indicated that some farmers achieved significantly higher volumes. Beyond direct sales, the crop contributes to multiple living dimensions, including education, food security, healthcare, income generation and environmental sustainability, with its financial impact on schooling and essential services being especially notable. Despite its growing importance, investments in critical infrastructure, equipment and training for horned melon cultivation remain limited. These outcomes collectively underscore the horned melon’s rising economic relevance and highlight the crucial need for targeted support to fully maximize its role in rural livings and sustainable agriculture. And policies should strengthen targeted extension programs for horned melon agronomy to equip smallholders with skills that boost productivity, quality and income.