The Tobacco Control Commission (TCC) has said demand for tobacco from buyers is currently intact, an indication that there is still a future for the country's green gold. Touring some tobacco nurseries in Kukanga Village, Zomba, TCC Technical and Operations Manager Fredrick Kamvazina said the future of tobacco in the country remains bright though there are global campaigns on anti smoking.
"We are still getting orders from the buyers, which is an indication that the demand for the crop is still there," said Kamvazina. TCC Acting Regional Manager for South Willard Singo assured the farmers that their crop will go through the market this year. "Last year, our production was 160 million kilogrammes but this year we are expecting production to go up by about 22 million kilogrammes, which is a positive development," said Singo.
He, however, said the growers are being encouraged to go into Integrated Production Systems through contract farming with buying companies as a precautionary measure to ensure market availability for their leaf. TCC board Chairman Gamaliel Bandawe said an assessment carried out across the country indicates that there will be a high quality leaf on the market next year.
"What I have seen so far in the nurseries is very impressive. I believe with good weather conditions and technical skills, we will have a good crop next year," said Bandawe. He urged the farmers to follow good agriculture practices so that they are able to benefit from their work.
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