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Fildah Gwati
TOBACCO farmers will this season access coal for tobacco curing without hassle, thanks to the introduction of a special coal facility by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), Kutsaga and Hwange Colliery as part of efforts to address challenges that affect sustainability and farmer viability.
The coal package will bring relief for tobacco farmers who have been struggling with high production costs and will help address production challenges affecting the sustainability of tobacco farming and farmer viability going forward. The cost of production for tobacco has always been high particularly when curing costs are factored in.
Tobacco Farmers Union Trust (TFUT) president Mr Victor Mariranyika said: “The special coal facility was designed to optimise the curing process, which is a critical stage in tobacco production. The supply of coal to farmers by Hwange colliery for the curing process increases efficiency and translates into substantial cost savings for farmers and enables them to allocate resources more effectively and improve their profit margins.”
With the introduction of the coal facility, farmers can now produce a more consistent product, which will attract premium prices and gain a competitive edge in the industry. This consistency ensures uniformity in the curing process, resulting in higher-quality tobacco that meets market demands, he said.
“The establishment of the special coal facility saves forests and brings opportunities for farmers to practise sustainable tobacco curing techniques and coal is a good alternative that can be used,” Mr Mariranyika said.
Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association (ZTGA) chairperson Mr George Seremwe chipped in saying the special coal facility had a significantly positive impact on tobacco farmers as the cost of production is reduced, as efforts to ensure that the coal is delivered to tobacco growers at affordable rates are consolidated. This helps increase efficiency and productivity, which boosts the crop’s contribution to the economy.
“The special coal facility is expected to empower tobacco farmers, strengthen the tobacco industry and pave the way for a prosperous and sustainable future. The diversification to coal enhances energy resilience and promotes sustainability in the agriculture sector. “The special coal facility not only offers benefits to tobacco farmers but also contributes to the diversification of energy sources in the region. By utilising coal as a fuel, the facility reduces dependence on traditional energy grids and supports local energy production,” he explained.
Zimbabwe Tobacco Association (ZTA) chief executive officer Rodney Ambrose added that over 70 percent of the tobacco crop is cured using unsustainable wood, which is causing deforestation.
“While the industry embarks on reforestation programmes, more efficient curing systems and alternate sustainable curing fuels, stop gap measures need to be put in place to ensure we maintain our production levels and protect the livelihoods of thousands of farmers,” he said.
Online Reporter