Business Correspondent
The Zimbabwean government has announced plans to establish a third sugar mill in Chiredzi, aiming to boost sugar production, stimulate competition, and end Tongaat Hulett’s monopoly in the local sugar industry.
This move is expected to benefit over 1,200 indigenous commercial sugar cane farmers in the Lowveld, who have been forced to rely on Tongaat Hulett’s mills.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira, Masvingo Province, revealed the plans at the Masvingo Business Expo, stating that the government has noticed the manipulation of Chiredzi farmers by Tongaat Hulett and has decided to decentralize power in the sugar industry.
The new mill will provide farmers with more choices and curb Tongaat’s monopoly in Chiredzi. Several investors have already shown interest, and the government is conducting inquiries to find suitable partners.
Local farmers have welcomed the government’s intervention, citing the need for diversification and an end to Tongaat’s monopoly. Maria Kujinga, a sugarcane farmer, said,
“If government sets up the mill in Chiredzi, farmers will have a choice and that means we will get better services.”
Former Chiredzi South MP and farmer Kalisto Gwanetsa added,
“Government should intervene in cane farming like it does with other crops.”
David Jani Masomere, another farmer, praised the idea, saying it would reduce sabotage and delays by Tongaat Hulett and benefit the country through products like molasses and ethanol.
The government’s move is seen as a positive step towards promoting competition and fairness in the sugar industry, ultimately benefiting farmers and the nation.
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