AMA, Police Intensify Crackdown on Illegal Sesame Trading and Smuggling

The Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have intensified a nationwide crackdown on illegal sesame trading and smuggling, with authorities confiscating more than 15,600 kilograms of sesame since the start of the 2026 buying season.

Officials say the joint operation is targeting sophisticated smuggling syndicates allegedly moving sesame seeds into Mozambique through illegal crossing points, particularly from Mbire District. Authorities are also seeking to curb roadside marketing and identify unlicensed buyers operating outside the country’s agricultural marketing regulations.

According to the AMA, authorities seized a total of 15,658 kilograms of sesame valued at approximately US$11,400 during recent operations. The confiscated produce was later auctioned in accordance with standard legal procedures. The multi-agency task force carried out three major raids this month:

• On 17 May, officials seized 1,692kg of sesame worth US$1,185 in Mbire.

• On 22 May, authorities recovered 4,800kg valued at US$2,880 in Chiredzi.

• Later the same day, another 9,166kg consignment valued at US$7,332 was intercepted in Mbire.

Authorities also issued five compliance fines amounting to US$5,000 against offenders accused of operating outside legal requirements.

AMA chief executive Alice Mapfiza warned that authorities would continue enforcing regulations throughout the sesame marketing season.

“She added that anyone found buying sesame seeds without AMA registration risks prosecution, confiscation of produce and penalties under the governing regulations.”

Mapfiza stressed that the regulatory authority would not tolerate illegal buying, side marketing, or smuggling activities.

Despite the crackdown, legitimate sesame trading continues to grow across Zimbabwe.

Latest AMA figures show that licensed contractors and registered buyers have already purchased 465,843 kilograms of sesame this season, injecting approximately US$372,674 into the agricultural economy. The authority encouraged farmers to sell their produce exclusively to registered buyers to avoid exploitation, payment disputes, and financial losses.

Officials say regulated trading systems also help improve transparency and protect contract farming arrangements.

Sesame has become an increasingly valuable cash crop in Zimbabwe due to growing regional and international demand, particularly in Asian export markets. However, authorities say illegal trading networks and smuggling continue to undermine formal agricultural markets and reduce government revenue. The AMA and ZRP indicated that enforcement operations would continue in border districts and key trading centres throughout the marketing season.

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