TIMB Launches Debt Relief Scheme to Support Smallholder Tobacco Farmers

The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB)

Reporter

Farmers across Zimbabwe are set to benefit significantly from the Tobacco Inputs Credit Scheme (TICS) debt relief program recently announced by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB). This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by thousands of smallholder and communal tobacco growers who have struggled to repay their loans due to a range of economic challenges.

Introduced in 2017, TICS was designed to support tobacco farmers, particularly those not under contract, by providing essential inputs on credit for production. However, many growers have encountered difficulties in managing their debts, stemming from economic hardships, climate shocks, and operational constraints that have hindered their ability to sustain viable tobacco production. In response to these pressing issues, TIMB is rolling out a comprehensive debt relief package that promises renewed hope and opportunity for farmers. Key measures of the scheme include a 50 percent discount on outstanding debts for TICS beneficiaries who make payments at any TIMB office by May 31. This significant reduction offers a pathway for farmers to regain their footing in the tobacco sector and continue their production efforts.

TIMB CEO Emmanuel Matsvaire said the entity is committed to improving tobacco growing.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to inclusive and sustainable agriculture, ensuring no farmer is left behind. By relieving this debt, we not only give these farmers a fresh start but also strengthen the foundations of the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan (TVTP),” he said.

Mr. Matsvaire emphasised that the goal of the TVTP is to improve livelihoods, promote local financing, and expand production to an ambitious target of 300 million kilograms annually.

For elderly farmers over the age of 65 and the relatives of deceased TICS beneficiaries, additional support is also available. These individuals are encouraged to visit their nearest TIMB office with certified national identity documents to negotiate further discounts. This inclusive approach ensures that the most vulnerable farmers receive the assistance they need to thrive. TIMB has strategically positioned offices in Harare, Mutare, Rusape, Marondera, Chinhoyi, Karoi, Mvurwi, and Bindura to enhance accessibility for all tobacco growers. Farmers aged 65 and older must provide certified copies of their IDs, while families of deceased beneficiaries need to submit a certified death certificate, burial order, or an official letter stamped by both the village head and the councillor. This timely intervention comes amid the 2025 tobacco marketing season, where many growers are currently liquid and can take advantage of this opportunity to alleviate their legacy debt. As of May 16, 2025, farmers had already sold 189.2 million kilograms of tobacco worth US$639.7 million. While the season began slowly, Mr. Matsvaire noted a positive trend in tobacco deliveries, expressing confidence in reaching the target of 300 million kilograms this season.

The first sale of Naturally Cured Virginia (NCV) tobacco, grown in Mangwe district, Matabeleland South, was made on May 22 at the Atlas Agri contract floor in Marula. This event marked a crucial milestone in the marketing season, signaling a renewed momentum for the sector.

Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association (ZTGA) chairman George Seremwe praised the debt relief initiative. “It’s indeed good that these farmers should pay back the credits which emanated from TICS. We encourage farmers to heed the call and pay back to avoid any other challenges,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of future programs, calling for initiatives that incorporate farmer feedback to enhance recovery rates and overall effectiveness. Mr. Seremwe expressed appreciation for the Government’s efforts but urged TIMB to engage with farmer organisations when implementing such programs.

“At times, these initiatives are done without the input of the farmers, which can lead to misunderstandings,” he noted. He encouraged collaboration between TIMB and farmers to ensure the success of the debt relief program and to bolster the resilience of the agricultural sector.