Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
THIS year’s tobacco marketing season is showcasing stability and prosperity, creating a favourable environment for farmers as prices at auction floors remain high.
Auction floors are bustling with activity, with long queues of trucks laden with tobacco now a common sight.
This surge in deliveries indicates that the season has reached its peak and farmers are taking advantage of the favourable market conditions.
According to the latest statistics from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), farmers have sold an astounding 249 125 878kg of tobacco this year, generating a significant US$839 437 243 in revenue.
This marks a substantial increase compared to last year’s figures, where 181 535 957kg was sold for US$632 699 362 during the same period.
The 37 percent increase in sales underscores the positive trajectory of the industry.
Currently, the average auction price stands at US$3.39, while contract prices are slightly lower at US$3.36.
This has incentivised many farmers to sell their tobacco at auction rather than enter into contracts, with many expressing satisfaction with the current market dynamics.
The success of this marketing season can be attributed in part to Zimbabwe’s land reform programme, which has emerged as a powerful catalyst for change.
As a result, smallholder farmers have gained greater control over their agricultural futures, contributing 85 percent of total crop production.
Notably, 60 percent of these farmers are beneficiaries of the land reform programme, highlighting its vital role in enhancing their livelihoods and fostering economic independence.
The Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy further complements these efforts by equipping farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge to maximise the potential of their land.
This combination of policy and support has empowered smallholder farmers, allowing them not just to cultivate their fields, but to thrive both economically and socially.
During a visit to the auction floors in Harare yesterday, The Herald had the opportunity to speak with several farmers, all of whom shared their joy over this season’s prices, contrasting sharply with previous years.
Mr Gift Madzo, a farmer from Kazangarare, Karoi, highlighted the importance of the land reform programme to the majority of people who rely on farming.
“Tobacco growing has significantly changed my life over the past three years since I started cultivating this crop. The opportunity to own land and produce tobacco has been transformative for me. I’m thrilled with the prices we are getting at the auction floors. For the past three years, all my tobacco has fetched this price because I make sure to apply sufficient fertilisers, which are critical for leaf quality and size. I would like to urge my fellow farmers to continue with tobacco production because it truly is the highest-paying crop in our region,”he said.
Similarly, Mrs Chemina Paul, a young mother from Mhangura, shared her sentiments about this season.
“This year is unlike any other. You can see that more people are flocking to the auction floors. The prices are attractive. I’m grateful for the current situation at the auction floors. Payments are prompt, and there are no delays this time, which makes a significant difference for us as farmers. I’m focusing on improving my property this year, so I can fully furnish my beautiful house,” she said.
Mr Robert Jakarasi, also from Karoi, highlighted how this year’s prices have drawn more farmers to the market.
“The only thing that attracts farmers at the market is the price,” he said.
“Everyone needs money, and that’s why you see such a long queue of trucks here. Better prices attract more people. I’ve sold 26 bales here, and they’ve all fetched US$4.99 each. I can’t express how much this has changed my life; all my previous poverty has vanished. Now, I’m focusing on buying a nice car and ensuring my children can attend a better school,” he said.
The strong performance at the auction floors this season reflects a positive trend for tobacco farmers and highlights the significant impact of the land reform programme.
With the commitment of farmers to improve their livelihoods through tobacco production, the future looks bright for Zimbabwe’s agricultural landscape.
As more farmers embrace these opportunities, the ongoing success of the marketing season promises to foster even greater economic independence and resilience within the farming community.
