The start of the 2025/26 tobacco season signals a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe’s tobacco growers, as the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) calls on farmers to begin establishing seedbeds from June 1, 2025. This date marks not only the official launch of the season but also the beginning of renewed efforts to boost productivity and meet the ambitious target of over 3 tonnes per hectare.
Achieving this target requires more than just planting, it demands careful planning, strict compliance with industry regulations, and the use of certified tobacco seeds sourced exclusively from Kutsaga Seeds, Zimbabwe’s only licensed tobacco seed supplier. TIMB has been clear in its warning against the use of uncertified seeds, describing it as a criminal offence that endangers both individual growers and the integrity of the national tobacco industry.
The tobacco sector continues to build on strong momentum from the 2024/25 marketing season, which has already seen record-breaking sales. By day 56 (May 28, 2025), Zimbabwe had sold over 237 million kilograms of tobacco, surpassing the total 232 million kilograms sold in the entire 2024 season. With two months left before the season’s close, the country is on course to exceed its ambitious target of 300 million kilograms, showcasing the sector’s resilience and potential for growth.
Alongside these efforts, TIMB has launched a comprehensive fire prevention campaign to protect the nation’s expanding tree woodlots, an essential resource for sustaining the industry. This initiative, launched on May 8 under the theme “Prevent Veld Fires, Protect Our Environment,” focuses on practical training for stakeholders in fire prevention and preparedness. Veld fires threaten afforestation efforts and pose a serious risk to both the environment and the livelihoods of those dependent on tobacco farming.
As the tobacco season unfolds, the call to action for all stakeholders, growers, regulators, and supporting institutions, is clear. Embracing best practices, respecting regulations, and committing to sustainable farming will be key to ensuring not only a bumper harvest but also the long-term health of Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry and its contribution to the national economy.
The season ahead is full of promise, but success will depend on collective responsibility and strategic action. With the right approach, Zimbabwe’s tobacco sector can continue to thrive and deliver significant benefits to its farmers and the country at large.
