Tobacco Industry Union Petitions Malawi Leader over Their Concerns

Source from:  APA - African Press Agency (sn)  10/15/2014

The trade union representing the tobacco industry in Malawi has petitioned President Peter Mutharika urging him to ensure his administration addresses their concerns including child labour and other issues.

Speaking after delivering a petition to the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), the Tobacco Tenants and Allied Workers Union of Malawi (TTAWUM) General Secretary Raphael Sandramu said the union is calling upon the government to end exploitation and ensure that tenants earn a decent living by all means.

"We want the government to help us earn a prosperous path by engaging in talks with owners of tobacco companies and buyers on a higher leaf price," he said.

Sandramu added that contract arrangements and leaf buying practices have never benefited smallholder farmers but rather exploits them.

In a petition, the union has also requested the government to encourage diversification so that farmers can grow other crops other than tobacco. Enditem