By Jones Gadama
In a move aimed at improving the livelihoods of tobacco farmers, Minister of Agriculture Sam Kawale has announced that the Ministry will engage tobacco buyers to negotiate better prices for the commodity.
The announcement was made during the National Tobacco Field Day for Malomo Extension Planning Area (EPA) in Ntchisi district.
Kawale expressed optimism that the planned deliberations will yield higher returns for tobacco growers.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers, including climate change, which has affected agricultural productivity in the area.
To mitigate this, the Ministry plans to invest in irrigation to enhance farming.
The Minister’s remarks were echoed by Dr. Albert Chagaya, Chief Executive Officer of ARET, who expressed high expectations for tobacco prices on the international market this season.
Despite erratic rainfall, the quality of tobacco has been high due to dry curing conditions in most shades.
Dr. Chagaya also acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers in producing tobacco, emphasizing the commodity’s potential for good returns if farmers follow the right practices.
This sentiment was shared by President Lazarus Chakwera, who recently recognized tobacco farmers as the country’s economic drivers, generating much-needed foreign exchange for importing essential goods.
The Ministry’s efforts to negotiate better prices for tobacco farmers are a welcome development, given the significant role that tobacco plays in Malawi’s economy.
The crop is a major foreign exchange earner for the country, and improving prices will have a positive impact on the livelihoods of farmers.
Kawale’s announcement is also in line with the government’s efforts to improve the tobacco industry.
Recently, the Minister assured that the new Tobacco Law would improve returns for growers and the country, drive the economy through increased foreign exchange earnings, remove grower restrictions, and curb exploitation.
As the tobacco market season commences, the Ministry’s negotiations with tobacco buyers will be closely watched.
Farmers and stakeholders will be hoping for a successful outcome, which will have a positive impact on the industry and the country’s economy.
The National Tobacco Field Day, where Kawale made the announcement, was an opportunity for stakeholders to come together and discuss challenges and opportunities in the tobacco industry.
The event was attended by farmers, buyers, and other stakeholders, who shared their experiences and expertise.
The Ministry of Agriculture’s efforts to negotiate better prices for tobacco farmers are a step in the right direction.
The move has the potential to improve the livelihoods of farmers, boost the tobacco industry, and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
