By Namwandi Mwiinga
The Government has launched the National Tobacco Strategy aimed at improving the livelihoods of more than 500,000 households that depend on the crop.
Speaking during the official opening of the National Tobacco Strategy, Ministry of Agriculture Permanent Secretary, John Mulongoti said the tobacco industry remains a key contributor to the country’s economy.
Mr Mulongoti said the sector, however, continues to face challenges, including declining tobacco prices, which are affecting farming communities in major tobacco-growing areas.
He said the new strategy is expected to guide the sustainable growth and development of the tobacco subsector, adding that while Zambia has made significant progress in tobacco production, there is still room for growth.
Meanwhile, Tobacco Board of Zambia Chief Operations Officer, Tyndale Kasongole said tobacco production has increased from 23 million kilograms to 72 million kilograms in recent years.
Mr Kasongole said the National Tobacco Strategy provides a clear roadmap for the development of the tobacco subsector and demonstrates the Government’s commitment to expanding production and improving the sector’s competitiveness.
