Business

TIMB urges tobacco farmers to keep children off tobacco fields

The 2024/25 tobacco farming season is in full swing, and the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has warned farmers against hiring underage minors.

With harvesting of irrigated tobacco underway and planting of rain-fed tobacco in progress, labour demand is high, leading some farmers to hire minors, including their own children on school holidays. However, minors working in tobacco fields are exposed to hazardous chemicals, and tobacco produced using child labour is shunned on the international market.

In a statement, TIMB reminded farmers that child labour is prohibited and urged them to adhere to the law.

“As families gather for the holidays, let’s protect our children’s future. Children under 18 are not allowed in tobacco fields. Use appropriate labour and report any cases of child labour by calling 116 for free. Together we can eliminate child labour.”

Tobacco Farmers’ Union Trust president Mr Victor Mariranyika said farmers are working closely with TIMB and contractors to ensure no child labour is used.

“Farmers generally shun using children as employees. Awareness campaigns have been conducted to educate farmers on the dangers of employing minors, and the response has been positive. Zimbabwe is a signatory to international conventions protecting minors from abuse, and farmers are cooperating well on this aspect,” Mr Mariranyika said.

Credit : Manica Post

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