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*Load Shedding Disrupts Tobacco Curing*

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Tobacco farmers have pleaded with the government for help to alleviate the negative impacts of the current electricity crisis on farming.

US$300 million of irrigated tobacco crop is reportedly under threat as load shedding is affecting the curing of the golden leaf.

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In a letter dated 5 December 2022, the Zimbabwe Tobacco Association (ZTA) pleaded with the Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka to intervene. Part of the letter reads:

> There is an immediate requirement for tobacco farmers to access concessionary-priced diesel fuel for generator use either through their contractor or through a government facility.

> Listings of affected farmers and requirements can be accessed through associations, unions, contractors and TIMB.

> For effective curing and handling of this crop, 24 hours of continuous power is required on tobacco farms.

> Currently, farms are getting on average seven hours of power per day, barring any faults, which is 30% of the requirements from the utility.

Zimbabwe is experiencing power cuts of up to 18 hours a day due to reduced generation at Kariba caused by low water levels and recurrent breakdowns at Hwange.

As of 8 December, 2022, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) was generating 506MW from its 5 power stations.

Hwange was generating 296MW, Kariba 200MW, Bulawayo 10MW, while Munyati and Harare were generating nothing. | Business Times

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