Staff Reporter
The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) has commenced a comprehensive Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training program for its technical team in anticipation of the upcoming tobacco planting season.
In an exclusive interview with this publication, TIMB’s Head of Technical Services, John Tazvida, emphasized the significance of the training.
“This GIS capacitation program is a crucial step towards modernizing our agricultural practices. By empowering our team with these skills, we aim to make tobacco farming more sustainable and environmentally friendly,” Tazvida stated.
The training, which began this week, is part of TIMB’s broader strategy to leverage technology in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of tobacco farming in the country.
“By integrating GIS technology, TIMB hopes to improve land use planning, monitor crop health, and optimize resource allocation, thereby boosting productivity and ensuring environmental conservation,” Tazvida added
Meanwhile, this initiative has received widespread commendation from prominent figures in the agricultural sector. Dr. Susan Ndlovu, a renowned agronomist and environmental advocate, applauded TIMB’s forward-thinking approach.
“Integrating GIS in agriculture is a game-changer. It allows for precise mapping and monitoring, which can lead to more efficient farming practices and better yields. TIMB’s initiative sets a commendable example for other agricultural sectors,” she said.
President of the Zimbabwe Farmers Union, Peter Chikwenhere, expressed his support for the program.
“TIMB’s commitment to sustainable agriculture through technological advancement is highly commendable. This training will not only benefit the tobacco industry but also serve as a model for other farming communities. The use of GIS can significantly improve farm management and productivity, which is crucial for our agricultural economy,” Chikwenhere remarked.
As the tobacco planting season approaches, TIMB’s technical team is expected to apply their newly acquired GIS skills to ensure more effective land management and crop monitoring. This initiative underscores TIMB’s dedication to innovation and sustainability in agriculture, paving the way for a more prosperous and environmentally conscious future for tobacco farming in the country.
