Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
GOVERNMENT has intensified its crackdown on fake and illegally imported tobacco seed as farmers across the country establish seedbeds following the opening of the tobacco planting window on June 1.
Authorities warned that the use of counterfeit or unapproved seed threatens productivity, farmer incomes and the integrity of Zimbabwe’s globally recognised tobacco seed system.
Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri described the distribution of fake seed as “agro-terrorism”, saying it had the potential to undermine one of the country’s most important export industries at a critical stage of the production cycle.
“So certainly delivering fake seed to farmers is tantamount to agro-terrorism. We do not take fake seed issues lightly,” he said.
“We take pride in the quality of our seed that we produce as Zimbabwe. Our seed systems, including tobacco, are among the best in the region and among the best globally in terms of structure and quality assurance.”
Prof Jiri said Zimbabwe produces adequate tobacco seed locally and has no need for unauthorised imports.
“We have enough tobacco seed for the country. The Tobacco Research Board and our reputable seed companies are fully prepared to supply farmers with all the seed required for the season,” he said.
He warned that those found importing or distributing unauthorised seed varieties would face legal consequences.
The warning comes as growers prepare seedbeds for the 2026/27 tobacco season, a crucial stage that determines crop establishment, vigour and ultimately yield potential.
Kutsaga Research chief executive officer Dr Frank Magama said Zimbabwe’s tobacco seed production system was built on decades of scientific research, breeding and certification designed specifically for local growing conditions.
“Every tobacco variety released through our system undergoes rigorous testing across different agro-ecological regions to ensure it delivers high yields, good leaf quality and resilience under Zimbabwean production conditions,” he said.
“Our breeding programmes focus on developing varieties that meet the needs of farmers and the market while maintaining the quality standards that have made Zimbabwean tobacco internationally competitive.”
Dr Magama said certified seed provided farmers with genetic purity, uniform crop performance and improved productivity compared to unverified seed sources.
“We encourage growers to obtain seed from authorised suppliers because certified seed gives farmers confidence in varietal performance, disease tolerance and yield potential. Protecting the integrity of our seed system is essential for sustaining the growth and reputation of Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry continues to be one of the country’s leading agricultural export sectors, with Government targeting increased production and improved productivity through research-driven innovations, quality seed systems and strengthened extension support.
