Theseus Mauruki Shambare
TOBACCO farmers have transplanted 13 122 hectares for the 2026/27 production season as planting activities gather momentum, with the industry urging growers to exercise caution when determining their hectarage amid anticipated El Niño conditions.
The latest figures from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) show an increase in planted hectarage from 10 597 hectares recorded on October 7 to 13 122 hectares by October 14, representing an additional 2 525 hectares in just a week.
Dryland transplanting is also expected to gain momentum as farmers receive sufficient rainfall, although growers have been urged to ensure their production plans are supported by adequate water, inputs, labour and financial resources.
TIMB acting public affairs officer Mr Ryhne Chikuni said farmers should treat tobacco production as a business and avoid committing resources beyond their capacity.
“We are encouraging farmers to approach tobacco production as a business by planting only the hectarage they can adequately support with available water, inputs, labour and financial resources, considering the expected El Niño conditions,” he said.
The caution comes as Zimbabwe prepares for the new agricultural season against forecasts of potentially challenging rainfall conditions, which could affect farmers’ production decisions and crop performance.
Meanwhile, grower registrations have increased by 11 percent, with 82 464 farmers having registered for the new season as at October 16, compared to 74 082 recorded during the corresponding period last year.
The increase of 8 382 growers reflects continued participation in the tobacco industry, although actual production will depend on farmers’ capacity to establish and sustain their crops.
In a move aimed at improving access to regulatory services, TIMB has also introduced EcoCash payments for grower number renewals, allowing farmers to complete the process remotely.
Growers can renew their registration numbers for US$10 until October 31, after which a further US$10 penalty will apply from November 1.
