The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for , , toured tobacco auction floors in on Monday to familiarise herself with the tobacco selling process and engage with farmers as the province seeks to surpass last season’s target of 105 million kilogrammes valued at US$337 million.
During the visit, the minister engaged farmers and auction floor officials to gain a better understanding of how the marketing system is operating at the start of the selling season. She said the tour was part of government efforts to assess the progress of the tobacco marketing season and to listen to concerns raised by growers.
Hon. Chombo highlighted the importance of tobacco production to the province and the national economy, noting that Mashonaland West is targeting to surpass last season’s output of 105 million kilogrammes of tobacco, which was valued at approximately US$337 million.
She said achieving a higher output would contribute significantly to economic growth and strengthen the sector’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
However, farmers expressed concern over the low prices currently being offered on the auction floors. According to growers, prices are ranging between US$0.60 and US$5.30 per kilogramme, which many feel does not adequately reflect the cost of production.
Farmers urged authorities and industry stakeholders to address pricing concerns in order to ensure that tobacco farming remains viable and profitable for producers.
Hon. Chombo acknowledged the concerns raised and assured farmers that their issues would be conveyed to the relevant authorities for consideration as government continues to support the growth of the tobacco industry.
