*27.05.2025* *Relief for Sugarcane Farmers in the South Eastern Lowveld as Zimbabwe Government Acts to Break Tongaat Hulett's Monopoly* Antony Chawagarira Chiredzi-Aimed at revitalizing the sugarcane industry, the Government of Zimbabwe has announced plans to dismantle Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe's longstanding monopoly in sugarcane milling. This initiative, revealed by the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, is set to bring much-needed relief to sugarcane farmers in the South Eastern Lowveld, who have long faced challenges stemming from the dominance of a single miller. Responding to concerns raised in Parliament by Chiredzi Central MP Ropafadzo Makumire, Hon Ndlovu emphasized the importance of fostering competition to improve efficiency and benefit both local farmers and consumers. With Tongaat Hulett currently undergoing a retrenchment process that threatens over 1,200 jobs, the urgency of this initiative has never been clearer. Sugarcane outgrower farmers have been grappling with high production costs, which have been exacerbated by the influx of cheap sugar imports. These challenges have not only impacted employment within the sector but also the profitability of local farming operations. Hon Ndlovu acknowledged these issues, stating that the Government is committed to implementing measures that will lower production costs and enhance competitiveness. Central to the Government's strategy is the introduction of new players into the milling sector. Hon Ndlovu stressed that reliance on a single company is unsustainable, and the inclusion of more millers will diversify the market and improve conditions for farmers. “We cannot continue to rely on one company,” he asserted. In addition to structural changes in the milling industry, the Minister called on farmers to increase their productivity, highlighting the current average yield of 40 tons per hectare—far below the optimal 130-170 tonnes. By improving their yields, farmers could enhance the competitiveness of Zimbabwean sugar, enabling larger exports and ultimately lowering prices for local consumers. The Government's designation of sugarcane as a strategic crop marks a pivotal step toward revitalizing the sector. This decision underscores the importance of sugarcane farming to the national economy, creating jobs and supporting related industries. Local stakeholders, including Chiredzi North MP Roy Bhila, have also been advocating for a collaborative approach, urging banks to partner with farmers to establish independent mills. Such initiatives could empower farmers, allowing them to take control of their production and reduce reliance on Tongaat Hulett. As the Government of Zimbabwe moves forward with these plans, sugarcane farmers in the South Eastern Lowveld are beginning to see a glimmer of hope. The promise of increased competition and support for productivity improvements could transform the landscape of the sugar industry, fostering a more resilient and prosperous future for farmers and consumers alike. https://chat.whatsapp.com/GAu4iePOQ4x9QuJ5zBhkAk *ADVERTS* *HLENGWENI CHILLAS IS OPEN IN MABOPANE.* Refresh yourself and enjoy with a tot of beer. Yes, it is taking place at Mabopane Block 1 CV 47 at Mai Nga's Tavern, which has been renamed *Hlengweni Chillas*. OPEN EVERY DAY UNTIL LATE. SAVEMORE LOGISTICS DELIVERY FROM SA TO CHIREDZI SOUTH , EVERY MONDAY TO ZIM AND EVERY THURSDAY TO SA. CONTACT MAXMAN MAKONDO AT +27717069504 Everyday transport from Chikombedzi to Chilonga, Book your Seat now, BabyFace Transportation is available with good services, Contact Darlington Chauke at +263 78 859 2065 CHIREDZI SOUTH TRANSPORT FOR SAND,GRAVEL, CONCRETE CONTACT Richard MADONDO ON *+27645357063* SEND MONEY HOME WITH RHUMAMINA FROM SA TO CHIREDZI TOWN - SOUTH FOR ONLY 10% CONTACT B MAKONDO AT *+27763193030* *Group Chat* https://chat.whatsapp.com/GAu4iePOQ4x9QuJ5zBhkAk *Our whatsapp Channel join here* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaVtG1G0AgWEEWQeu32t