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Precious Manomano-Herald Reporter

Planting of irrigated tobacco started on Sunday and farmers are positive of a good harvest.

The bulk of rain fed tobacco crop will be planted from late October to early December depending on when the rains settle in within each farming area.

September 1 is the earliest legislative date for transplanting tobacco from the seedbed to the field.

Most irrigated tobacco is grown by contracted growers who get their inputs on time.

Tobacco Farmers Union Trust (TFUT) president Mr Victor Mariranyika confirmed that the season has started and commercial farmers are in the fields planting. Most of these farmers had procured inputs.

We have high hopes this season following the weather forecast so farmers are in the fields.

But those waiting for the rains are managing their seedbeds waiting for the rains so that they transplant when they are sure the rains have come, he said.

About 95 percent of the crop is grown by contracted farmers, all the way from those planting 0,5ha up to those with large commercial plots.

Mr Mariranyika said most farmers had showed strong commitment this season adding that farmers will work hard to enhance production.

Farmers are urged to follow correct procedures to ensure high production.

Statistics from the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board show that 231 472 861 million kg worth US$793 182 032 were sold last season compared to 295 941 911 million kg worth US$896 381 937 sold last year.

Most farmers have earned better compared to the previous season and so are prepared adequately for another season.

Ms Paidamoyo Nyamundiro of Karoi said although the crop was affected she managed to produce 20 bales compared to 30 bales last year. She said all her children are in boarding schools because of tobacco farming.

“Tobacco farming can totally transform people’s lives. I have two girls and two boys who are in boarding schools. Farming can reward well if taken seriously. I’ve now been almost 10 years in this business. This year our crop was seriously affected by El Nino but we managed to harvest although we failed to meet the expected target. The prices were better this season,” she said.

Mrs Angellah Makuzva of Hurungwe said tobacco farming has minimised gender based violence adding that the majority of women were empowered through farming.

“Most women are doing well growing tobacco. Empowerment of women is critical because we also contribute a lot in our families. Those who depend on their husbands for survival are the most vulnerable people who are always abused,” she said.

Mr Taurai Bvunzawabaya of Banket said this season he only produced 30 bales adding that next season he wants to do better.

“I have procured inputs from the money that l got after selling tobacco. I do not want to be contracted anymore. Next season I will get all my money without deductions. This is my eighth year in tobacco farming. I have acquired all my wealth from farming. I have a nice house in Banket, another one in Marondera.

“What I can say is tobacco farming is improving our lives as a family,” he said.

Mrs Moud Makate of Banket said the marketing season was good although some contractors failed to pay farmers on time.

“Delays in payment can be disastrous. We are appealing to the authorities to ensure that we get payments on time. Side marketing should also be addressed as well as corruption so that we continue tobacco farming,” she said.