Tobacco growers in Zimbabwe have welcomed the government’s decision to extend tobacco cultivation, the Herald reported.
Initially, farmers were given until December 31 to clear their seedbeds. However, due to the late start of the 2023-2024 season, the Ministry of Land and Fisheries postponed the deadline to January 15.
George Seremwe, chairman of the Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association, said farmers appreciated the government's gesture, adding that it would lead to an increase in the area under cultivation.
"For most tobacco-producing areas, the rainy season begins just before Christmas and dryland farmers are busy planting and hoping to complete planting by January 15," he was quoted as saying. "As the dry season appears to have changed, The current rainfall and extension of the deadline will allow the acreage to increase, allowing the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) to adjust upward its forecasts for acreage and production."
Victor Marylandnica, chairman of the Tobacco Farmers' Union Trust, said: "This is a noble idea that will allow seedlings in those beds that have survived the recent damp stress of water shortages and excessive heat to be resurrected after the current rainfall. "
While approving the extension, Agriculture Minister Masuka warned that growers who failed to comply with the deadline would face severe penalties and even jail terms.
According to TIMB data, the cultivated area decreased by 27% as of December 15, from 745,111 hectares in 2022 to 55,170 hectares in 2023.
