Government declares cotton revival, targets 520 000 farmers

Belindah Chikandiwa

THE nation’s “white gold” is making a strong comeback following the Government’s intervention, officials announced at the 2025 World Cotton Day celebrations today.

After production fell to a low of under 20 000 kg, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri confirmed that strategic Government intervention has saved the critical crop.

“Production of white gold is now on the rise,” Professor Jiri stated, acknowledging that climate change and a threatened value chain had previously crippled the sector.

The recovery plan is firmly focused on supporting the country’s 520,000 cotton farmers. Prof Jiri revealed that the Government is providing a minimum input package and has stepped in to guarantee funding, a historical struggle for the industry.

“The struggles have always been the funding for these farmers, which is why the Government came in to support Cottco in a big way,” he said.

Looking forward, the Government is pushing for greater collaboration across the entire cotton industry.

Prof Jiri emphasised that spinners and weavers at the top of the value chain must also support primary production.

For the current summer season, all necessary inputs, including high-yielding hybrid seed and fertilisers, are available for the targeted 285 000 hectares to be place under the crop.

The availability of preferred hybrid seeds and comprehensive support for farmers has set a positive tone for the upcoming harvest. Jiri confidently projected a significantly better yield for the 2025-2026 season, signalling a robust recovery for the vital agricultural sector.”