Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Herald Correspondent
MORE than 15 600 kilogrammes of illegally traded sesame seed has been confiscated by the Agricultural Marketing Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police as authorities intensify a nationwide anti-smuggling blitz following the commencement of the 2026 buying season.
The joint operation targets a syndicate smuggling the cash crop to Mozambique through informal channels, particularly from the Mbire area, as well as curbing side marketing and identifying individuals or entities buying sesame without valid AMA licenses.
The seized 15 658kg, valued at approximately US$11 400, has since been auctioned in accordance with standard enforcement procedures.
A breakdown of the operations shows that 1 692kg valued at US$1 185 was intercepted in Mbire on May 17, while May 22 saw the recovery of 4 800kg in Chiredzi valued US$2 880 and an additional 9 166kg in Mbire valued at US$7 332.
Furthermore, five compliance tickets worth US$5 000 were issued to offenders operating outside the regulatory framework.
In a statement, AMA chief executive, Ms Alice Mapfiza warned that they would maintain zero tolerance toward illegal buying, side marketing, and smuggling throughout the marketing season, noting that enforcement would be intensified across all major producing regions.
“As the regulator of agricultural markets, AMA remains committed to ensuring orderly marketing systems that protect farmers, safeguard investments within the sesame value chain and promote transparency within the sector. Illegal sesame trading and smuggling activities will not be tolerated,” she said.
She further warned that all offenders found buying sesame seed without AMA registration risk prosecution, confiscation of produce and penalties in terms of the governing regulations.
Meanwhile, sesame intake by licenced buyers continues to increase as the marketing season gathers momentum.
Current intake figures recorded by AMA indicate that licensed contractors and buyers have collectively purchased 465 843kg of the crop valued at about US$372 674.
AMA said the blitz was not only aimed at enforcing compliance, but also at strengthening confidence within the sesame sector, improving traceability and ensuring that Zimbabwe fully benefits from the growing international demand for sesame.
The authority urged farmers to sell their produce only through registered and licenced buyers to avoid disputes, exploitation and losses during the marketing season.
