Luthando Mapepa in RUSAPE
THE inaugural Zimpapers Manicaland Tobacco Expo, held today in Rusape, is expected to boost future tobacco production in the province.
The event brought together various players in the tobacco value chain, providing a platform for them to engage, share insights, and collaborate to secure the future of the tobacco industry.
Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Abiot Maronge said the tobacco expo is a game-changer for the tobacco industry in the province.
“It provides a vital platform for tobacco stakeholders to address challenges and create opportunities that promote the sector,” he said.
Mr Maronge emphasized the importance of the Zimpapers Tobacco Expo initiative, which is expected to contribute to the growth of Manicaland’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“The tobacco industry significantly impacts Manicaland’s provincial GDP. As a major cash crop in Zimbabwe, tobacco production and exports substantially contribute to the country’s foreign currency earnings,” he said.
Mr Maronge said the expo initiative is crucial, particularly in Makoni, the hub of tobacco production in the province.
Through such engagement efforts, Mr Maronge believes the country can attain an upper-middle economy by 2030.
Agriculture alone contributes 20 percent of Manicaland GDP, with tobacco production playing a vital role in achieving Vision 2030 – a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society.
Mr Nhamo Mudada, Provincial Director of Agricultural Rural Development Advisory Services, urged tobacco farmers to adhere to regulations governing tobacco production timelines.
“To excel in the tobacco industry, we must follow the tobacco production calendar,” he stressed, warning that failure to comply could lead to loss of market access.
Zimpapers Agriculture Editor, Mr Obert Chifamba said the expo provides an opportunity for industry players to explore new technologies and trends that enhance productivity and efficiency.
“We recognize the hard work and dedication of our farmers, who are the backbone of this industry,” he said.
Diamond FM’s Mr Jabulani Mangezi thanked stakeholders for their support in making the expo a reality.
