Tobacco Farmers Urged to Insure Crops as Hailstorm Threat Rises

Itai Mazire

The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has urged tobacco farmers across the country to urgently take up crop insurance as unpredictable weather patterns, especially hailstorms, threaten to wipe out their livelihoods.

In a statement, the Ministry warned that tobacco growers are facing a significant threat to their crops from unexpected weather events, particularly hailstorms. “Such events can cause devastating damage to tobacco crops, resulting in substantial financial losses for farmers.

“In light of this risk, it is imperative for all tobacco growers to take proactive measures to protect their investment. One of the most effective ways to mitigate this risk is to insure your crop with a reliable insurer,” reads part of the statement.

The Ministry indicated that crop insurance provides farmers with a critical buffer against financial ruin.

“Crop insurance provides a vital safety net for tobacco growers, enabling them to recover from unforeseen events and minimise the financial impact of crop damage or loss,” the Ministry stated.

It added that with insurance, farmers can have peace of mind knowing their investment is protected.

The Ministry strongly encouraged growers to prioritise working with reputable insurers, saying this will help them “protect their investment from unforeseen weather events, ensure they receive support in the event of loss, and safeguard their livelihood and farm’s financial stability.”

With the rainy season underway, authorities issued a final reminder, urgently calling on farmers to invest in crop insurance. “Do not wait until it is too late. Insure your tobacco crop today and rest assured that you have taken the necessary steps to protect your investment.”