Zimbabwe is expecting a bumper tobacco harvest of 300 million kilogrammes this year, driven by favorable rainfall and increased production among smallholder farmers. Chairperson of the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), Patrick Devenish, relayed expectations during a parliamentary session. Support for smallholder farmers remains crucial for the industry’s future as it prepares for the upcoming selling season.
HARARE – Zimbabwe is projecting a remarkable tobacco harvest of 300 million kilogrammes this year, attributed to favorable rainfall conditions and an upsurge in production among smallholder farmers. This announcement was made in parliament by the chairperson of the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), Patrick Devenish, during an oral presentation to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development.
According to Mr. Devenish, the tobacco crop has exhibited exceptional growth since the onset of rains in January, fostering an optimistic outlook for this year’s yields. Currently, the estimation stands at 280 million kilogrammes, with the potential to exceed this figure pending the final estimates. “While we are cautious about making guarantees, we believe a 300-million-kilogramme crop is achievable,” he asserted.
The substantial increase in tobacco production has been significantly influenced by the success of smallholder farmers, who have greatly benefited from the tobacco contracting system. Devenish noted that this system has empowered smallholder farmers, resulting in enhanced yields and improved tobacco quality. He remarked, “A significant part of the industry’s success is due to these farmers. Their yields have risen sharply, and the quality of their tobacco has improved as well.”
Moreover, Mr. Devenish emphasized the importance of supporting smallholder farmers to secure the future of Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry and its broader significance within the agricultural landscape of Africa. Looking ahead to the 2025 tobacco selling season, TIMB has licensed 31 A-Class buyers and 44 contractors. This year will witness 55 markets, encompassing both contract and auction markets, all of which have been prepared and inspected by TIMB staff.
Tobacco continues to serve as Zimbabwe’s foremost agricultural export, representing a vital source of foreign currency for the nation and highlighting the industry’s significance in both local and regional contexts.
In summary, Zimbabwe anticipates a substantial tobacco harvest of 300 million kilogrammes for the current year, driven largely by favorable weather conditions and the enhanced productivity of smallholder farmers via the contracting system. The efforts to support these farmers are crucial for sustaining the industry, which remains a key contributor to the national economy. With the commencement of the selling season upon us, the agricultural sector looks forward to robust market participation. Overall, the optimistic projections signal positive prospects for Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry and its economic role.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
