THE Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has urged tobacco farmers to harvest only mature leaves and strictly adhere to recommended handling and curing procedures to minimise losses, as Zimbabwe anticipates a big tobacco harvest this season.
Government has set an ambitious production target of 360 million kilogrammes for the 2025-26 season, up from 350 million kilogrammes achieved during the previous marketing season.
Last season, Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry recorded a historic milestone after producing 354 881 661 kilogrammes, the highest output ever. The achievement pushed tobacco earnings beyond the US$1 billion mark for the first time, with proceeds reaching US$1 178 458 265.
TIMB public affairs officer Chelesani Tsarwe said the board was calling for caution and strict compliance with best practices as the harvesting season begins, warning that poor handling can compromise quality and profitability.
"We urge growers to harvest only mature leaves, follow recommended handling and curing practices, and comply with TIMB regulations,” she said.
Tsarwe emphasised the importance of wearing personal protective equipment during harvesting to prevent Green Tobacco Sickness, adding that a disciplined approach early in the season would yield better results.
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She highlighted the need for effective pest and disease control, adequate crop nutrition, moisture management and appropriate topping and sucker control to maximise yields.
She further urged growers to safeguard their crop during harvesting and curing by ensuring sufficient curing facilities and carefully monitoring temperature and humidity levels.
“Protecting tobacco from contamination and mechanical damage during harvesting and curing is vital for maintaining quality and value. It is equally important to have sufficient curing facilities and to closely monitor curing conditions,” Tsarwe said.
TIMB deployed field officers across all tobacco-growing regions to provide on-the-ground support to farmers throughout the season.
“TIMB field officers work closely with farmers, guiding them on agronomic practices, compliance requirements, and the overall tobacco production process from seedbed to selling floors. Their support is essential for ensuring that Zimbabwe remains a leader in high-quality tobacco production,” she said.