NEW: Tobacco growers, planted area increase in 2024/25 season

Online Reporter

THERE has been a notable increase in both the number of registered tobacco growers and area under cultivation, the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has said, raising hopes of increased production of the cash crop this year.

TIMB public affairs officer Mrs Chelesani Tsarwe said the increase is complemented by a rise in hectarage under tobacco farming.

“As of 3 January 2025, we had registered 126 474 growers, compared to 112 914 growers registered during the same period last year,” she said.

“Additionally, there is more hectarage under tobacco this season. We have 107 368 hectares of tobacco, compared to 105 119 hectares transplanted during the same period last year.”

Mrs Tsarwe attributed the growth to the extension of the tobacco planting period to January 15, 2025 by the Government.

“This extension aims to accommodate farmers cultivating rain-fed tobacco,” she said.

“Growers are encouraged to continue planting within this extended period.”