STAKEHOLDERS in Zimbabwe’s tobacco sector have called for a co-ordinated and enforceable strategy to curb deforestation driven by tobacco curing processes, warning that fragmented efforts will not reverse the estimated 60 000 hectares of forest lost annually.
The call comes amid growing concern that unsustainable curing practices, weak enforcement and limited investment in reforestation are undermining the long-term viability of both the tobacco industry and the country’s environmental resources.
Delegates at a two-day forestry indaba held in Harare last week said the industry, which contributed about 20% of the country’s deforestation, should adopt tougher, transparent and measurable interventions to safeguard timber supplies and ensure environmental sustainability.
They warned that non-compliance can result in delisting or contract termination, signalling a shift towards stricter accountability.
“Accelerate afforestation programmes and research on faster-growing tree species. Let’s make it mandatory for contractors to invest 1,5% of purchases in afforestation,” the panel resolved.
There were also calls for the establishment of auditable woodlots and enhanced capacity building for the Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe to strengthen oversight and enforcement.
“Prioritise land allocation for afforestation and attract investors while making reports annually on afforestation progress certification.
“Address wood costs and logistics and promote fuel-efficient barns and outlaw traditional barns by 2030 and revise Statutory Instrument 116 of 2012. There is need to enhance training, awareness and enforcement of afforestation regulations,” the meeting agreed.
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Speaking after the indaba, Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association president George Seremwe emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in afforestation efforts.
“The afforestation levy represents a progressive policy instrument,” he said.
“Its effectiveness now depends on transparency, scale alignment, inclusion and measurable ecological outcomes.”
Some contractors attending the meeting called on government to ensure efficient implementation of the tobacco levy.
“We expect that the tobacco levy is implemented effectively and bring any updates transparently. The whole sector needs each other to make positive strides,” they said.
Tobacco is Zimbabwe’s third largest foreign currency earner after gold and platinum.
