adminDaniel Chigunwe Herald Reporter
GOVERNMENT has been urged to revisit the Farmers’ Stop Order Act, Chapter 18, Section 11 to protect contractors and all financial institutions against small-scale tobacco farmers who at times side market their crops.
Tobacco agronomist Mr Grant Nzombe said Government has to realign the legislation to stop breach of contract.
His comments come in the wake of the arrest of a 43-year-old Guruve farmer who side marketed tobacco worth $800 after he had been contracted by Mashonaland Tobacco Company.
“Currently, the law that is in effect is the 2001 amendment which was passed back then during the land reform era when there were a few small-scale tobacco players. However, the farming industry is witnessing a fast growth in the number of small-scale growers due to the availability of several contractors.
“Some tobacco contractors are now offering favourable buying price tempting farmers who have been contracted by other players to breach agreed terms and conditions,” said Mr Nzombe.
Online Reporter