Online Reporter
Elita Chikwati
Cottco has assured farmers that outstanding dues from the 2023 and 2024 marketing seasons will be paid.
The company owes farmers about US$5,6 million from the 2023 marketing season and ZiG436 580.55 from the 2024 season.
Cottco chief operating officer, Mr Munyaradzi Chikasha said they are aware of farmers’ plight and are working towards settling the outstanding payments.
“We are aware that there are still some farmers who are yet to get their money from the 2023 and 2024 seasons. We are making all efforts to ensure all farmers receive their money,” he said.
Mr Chikasha said for the 2025 marketing season, the company requires US$17 million to buy the crop from farmers.
The marketing season starts on June 1.
“We are ready for the marketing season and we are going to deploy staff to more than 260 buying points. We are currently recruiting clerks from the cotton growing areas,” he said.
Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union representative and farmer Mr Clever Gondo urged Cottco to settle outstanding payments before buying the current crop to discourage farmers from side marketing.
