One of six planned ethanol plants in Zimbabwe has started producing biofuel out of the 5,000 tonnes of sugarcane it requires each day.

The plant in Chisumbanje generates its own electricity, and experts believe the unit and others like it will reduce the country's need for fuel imports while curbing pollution and greenhouse gas.

Chisumbanje is a poor farming village and economically the plant is good news for many in the local community.

Officials say those whose farming has been disrupted by the plant will be compensated.

Haru Mutasa reports from Chisumbanje.