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In a statement last week, TIMB said the renovations that were being carried out at the Boka Floors, which were previously operated by Zitac, were necessary to avoid problems faced in the past.
“TIMB will be monitoring work progress at the floors and will give notice to all stakeholders when the facility is ready for tobacco sales,” said the statement.
Boka has entered into partnership with a transport company, Golden Leaf Haulage, under which growers will be ferried to the floors.
Unlike in the past when farmers delivered their product while precariously sitting on tobacco bales, Golden Leaf Haulage is offering trucks and a minibus that will carry farmers and their produce.
Golden Leaf Haulage (GLH) managing director Mr Tapiwa Chasi said under the arrangement with Boka, GLH will provide trucks to ferry tobacco from various provinces while farmers will be driven in minibuses.
He said the farmers would also be ferried back to their homes.
“Unlike in the past when tobacco farmers sat dangerously on top of their tobacco as they delivered to the floors, transport will be provided this year.
“We are in an arrangement with Boka and to solve logistical issues that have been a problem in the past,” said Mr Chasi. He said the tobacco would be insured in case of fire and other damages.
GLH project manager Mr Tinashe Dhlamini said an arrangement had been made to accommodate farmers after the company identified 10 houses for lodging.
“The activities that characterised the auction floors previously exposed farmers to a number of vices.
“The trend will be different as we identified houses in Waterfalls, Budiriro, Glen View and Highfield where the farmers will be staying,” said Mr Dhlamini.
“Security will also be provided so that the fruit of the land reform can be realised.”
Mr Dhlamini said the arrangement would also see the farmers being ferried back with goods and inputs they would have bought.
Some of the provinces that would benefit under the scheme are Mashonaland Central, Harare, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West and Manicaland.-The Sunday Mail
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