Online Reporter
Edgar Vhera
Specialist Writer – Agribusiness
THE Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has implemented some measures to preserve the integrity of the industry and create a more humane and responsive marketing environment for growers.
This follows complaints from farmers regarding their challenging experiences at the auction floors.
Farmers have reported issues such as extended queuing times, inadequate sanitation, unsafe sleeping arrangements and pressure to pay for preferential treatment.
These grievances prompted the Zimbabwe National Farmers Union (ZNFU) president, Mrs. Monica Chinamasa, to bring these challenges to the attention of TIMB.
In response, TIMB’s acting chief executive, Mr Emmanuel Matsvaire, said the board was committed to engaging auction floor operators to enhance infrastructure and sanitation facilities.
“TIMB is actively working with all licensed auction and contract floor operators to ensure immediate improvements in infrastructure and sanitation for growers.”
He also emphasised the board’s commitment to enhancing monitoring systems and whistle-blower protection.
“We urge growers to report any incidents of corruption or misconduct by security personnel, agents or buyers. All reports will be handled confidentially and acted upon decisively,” Mr Matsvaire said.
On the delays in payments, the TIMB boss said the board was in active discussions with both auction and contract floors to ensure timely and complete disbursement of all payments..
Some farmers face significant challenges with accommodation after their bales are rejected for various reasons including poor handling.
One grower recounted her experience after a 97-kilogramme bale was rejected due to poor handling.
“Imagine if you get your bale rejected on a Friday and you are told to come back on Monday, but you have no place to stay in Harare. Where do you go?” she said.
