Zambia: “Tobacco Is Strategic Crop”

Source from:  ZNBC 06/26/2017

Minister of Agriculture Dora Siliya says tobacco remains one of the key strategic crops relevant to the country’s social and economic growth.

Ms. Siliya says if properly harnessed, the tobacco industry has potential to grow the economy and improve livelihoods of people.

In a speech read for her by Agriculture Permanent Secretary Julius Shawa at the 53rd Tobacco Association of Zambia -TAZ- annual general conference, Ms. Siliya regretted that the tobacco production over the years has declined.

Ms. Siliya observed that the annual production levels for tobacco have reduced from over 40 million kilogrammes per year in 2013 to about 22 million kilogrammes per year this year.

She said it was important for TAZ to strategise on how best they can revive the tobacco industry in the midst of global and financial challenges.

Meanwhile, British America Tobacco Managing Director Godfrey Machanzi has disclosed that his company is constructing a 25 million U.S dollar tobacco processing plant in Lusaka’s Multi-Purpose Zone.

Mr. Machanzi also disclosed that the company has embarked on a capacity building programme for local employees that shall be employed in the new factory. Enditem