Zimbabwe's tobacco marketing season booms

This year's tobacco marketing season is demonstrating remarkable stability and prosperity, creating an encouraging environment for Zimbabwean farmers as prices at auction floors remain robust.

Auction floors across the country are bustling with activity, with long queues of trucks loaded with tobacco becoming a common sight. This surge in deliveries signals that the season has reached its peak, with farmers eager to capitalise on favourable market conditions.

Latest data from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) shows that farmers have sold a staggering 249,125,878 kilograms of tobacco so far this year, generating a substantial US$839,437,243 in revenue. This reflects a remarkable 37 percent increase in volume and value compared to last year's 181,535,957 kilograms sold for US$632,699,362 during the same period.

Currently, the average auction price stands at US$3.39 per kilogram, slightly edging out contract prices, which average US$3.36. This price differential has motivated many farmers to prefer selling at auction, with many expressing satisfaction with the current market dynamics.

The success of this marketing season is closely linked to Zimbabwe's land reform programme, which has empowered smallholder farmers by giving them greater control over their land and agricultural futures. These smallholders now contribute an impressive 85 percent of the country's total tobacco crop production. Remarkably, 60 percent of these smallholder farmers are beneficiaries of the land reform initiative, underscoring its critical role in enhancing livelihoods and promoting economic independence.

The Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy complements these efforts by equipping farmers with the skills and resources necessary to maximise their land's productivity. This holistic support has enabled smallholder farmers not only to cultivate tobacco successfully but also to thrive economically and socially.

During a visit to the Harare auction floors yesterday, several farmers shared their experiences and optimism about the season.

Mr. Gift Madzo from Kazangarare, Karoi, praised the land reform programme, noting its transformative effect on his life. "Tobacco growing has significantly changed my life over the past three years. Owning land and producing tobacco has been life-changing. I'm thrilled with the prices we are getting at auction. I ensure I use enough fertiliser, which is crucial for quality leaf and good prices. I encourage fellow farmers to continue with tobacco because it is the highest-paying crop in our region," he said.

Mrs. Chemina Paul, a young mother from Mhangura, highlighted the improved conditions this year. "This season is unlike any other. More people are coming to the auction floors, and the prices are attractive. Payments are prompt, with no delays, which makes a big difference for us. I'm planning to improve my property this year and fully furnish my beautiful house," she said.

Mr. Robert Jakarasi, also from Karoi, emphasised the role of price in attracting farmers. "The only thing that attracts farmers to the market is the price. Everyone needs money, and that's why the queues are so long. I've sold 26 bales, all fetching US$4.99 each. This has transformed my life; my previous poverty is gone. Now I'm focusing on buying a car and ensuring my children get a better education," he said.

The strong performance at auction floors this season signals a positive trajectory for tobacco farmers and demonstrates the substantial impact of land reform on Zimbabwe's agricultural sector. With many farmers embracing tobacco production and its economic opportunities, the future looks promising for the country's farming communities.

As the marketing season continues, the ongoing success promises to bolster economic independence and resilience among Zimbabwe's tobacco farmers.