Govt extends tobacco starks destruction deadline

The government has extended the deadline for the destruction of tobacco stalks and roots by farmers to 10 June 2024 for the 2023/24 tobacco season

According to the Plant Pest and Diseases (Tobacco) Regulations of 1979, all farmers are expected to destroy tobacco stalks and roots by 15 May each year.

However, due to climate change resulting in erratic rainfall patterns, the government has extended the deadlines to enable farmers to plant and destroy the stalks.

In January 2024, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, and Rural Development extended by fifteen (15) days the field transplanting of tobacco following late rains, which affected farmers who grow rain-fed tobacco.

All tobacco industry stakeholders must comply with the new deadline. Those who are unable to meet the deadline are advised to apply to the Chief Director responsible for the National Plant Protection Organisation of Zimbabwe at least two days before the cut-off date.

The Ministry warned that non-compliance could result in legal consequences. First offenders will be liable to a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars for each hectare. Repeat offenders risk being fined or imprisoned.

Farmers are urged to comply with the law to ensure pests and diseases are eradicated. The government has consistently supported farmers with input distribution and technical advice through extension officers to help achieve good yields.