By Amos Sikaonga 
By Amos Sikaonga
Minister of Agriculture has announced that Zambia’s tobacco production is projected to reach 80 million kilograms in 2025, a significant increase from the 44 million kilograms recorded in 2024.
Speaking during the official opening of the 2025 tobacco marketing season in Lusaka, Reuben Phiri Mtolo noted that the sector has also experienced growth in the number of tobacco growers, rising from 28,000 in 2024 to 38,000 in 2025.
Mr. Mtolo also observed a surge in the number of tobacco buyers from only six in 2024, to more than 14 at the moment, a move which enhances market competitiveness and offers growers better opportunities and prices.
He said the strong growth trajectory is a clear indication of a revitalized sector and reflects the growing confidence Zambian farmers and stakeholders have in the tobacco industry.
“This positive outlook has not gone unnoticed. In response, my Ministry has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at supporting the broader agricultural sector, including tobacco,” Mr. Mtolo said.
He revealed that one of the key interventions implemented by the government is the Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF) which is designed to address the high cost of production, a major challenge, particularly during periods of climate stress.
“This initiative targets all categories of farmers, including tobacco growers, and aims to make financing more accessible and affordable. We believe this intervention will boost productivity and ensure better incomes for our farmers,”he explained.
Mr. Mtolo observed that tobacco remains a vital crop in Zambia’s agricultural economy, contributing approximately 2% to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing thousands of citizens.
“It is currently estimated that about 500,000 people are engaged across the tobacco value chain, making it one of Zambia’s leading foreign exchange earners,” Mr. Mtolo said.
He also disclosed that the government has launched a nationwide strategy to promote mechanization across all agricultural value chains.
“For the tobacco sub-sector, this translates into improved farm efficiency, reduced labor costs, and ultimately, increased output,” he said.
He emphasized that mechanization is crucial to ensuring long-term sustainability and competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
Mr. Mtolo also noted that this season, sales floors have been established in all major tobacco-producing regions as part of the government’s decentralization policy and the proactive efforts of the Tobacco Board of Zambia.
“By bringing the market closer to the grower, we are reducing transport costs, increasing farmer incomes, and creating jobs in rural communities. This development is commendable and deserves our collective support,” Mr. Mtolo stated.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mtolo hailed the Tobacco Board of Zambia for establishing the Tobacco Industry Sustainability Framework Committee in response to the adverse effects of climate change experienced last season.
He said the committee will help lead efforts to promote climate-smart tobacco farming practices.
Cecilia Chiluba 
News Desk