Staff Reporter
Government has announced a new cotton payment structure, for the 2025 marketing season, which has been met with widespread approval among cotton farmers.
Under the new arrangement, farmers will receive 70percent of their earnings in US dollars and the remaining 30 percent in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, a move expected to boost morale and productivity in the sector.
Farmers across cotton-producing regions have welcomed the development, hailing the payment model as fair and motivating.
Bhekimpilo Moyo, a cotton grower in Gokwe, expressed satisfaction with the payment terms.
“This 70% USD component is a game changer. It restores value to our hard work and helps us plan for our families. We can now buy inputs and essentials without worrying about currency losses,” said Moyo.
Tariro Mukandi from Muzarabani echoed the sentiment, noting that the pricing and payment structure would encourage more people to venture into cotton farming.
“Many of us had lost hope because payments were delayed or made in weak currency. But with USD now guaranteed, we are confident and looking forward to increasing our yields next season,” said Mukandi.
To ensure smooth operations, Government has established 697 buying points across the country, comprising 221 permanent stations and 476 mobile units.
During the post cabinet press briefing, on Tuesday, Minister Muswere stressed that no cotton bale will be transported from any buying point unless full payment is made to the farmer.
In addition, merchants will not be allowed to buy seed cotton until they have cleared all outstanding debts from the previous season.
Agricultural expert, Dr. Edith Nzembe, said that Government’s approach this year is clearly designed to promote fairness, accountability, and confidence in the sector.
“With global cotton prices remaining competitive, the 70 USD payment model not only cushions farmers against local inflation but also signals a more sustainable and farmer-friendly policy direction,” said Nzembe.
Meanwhile, all eyes will be on whether the projected 61 000 metric tonnes will be achieved, potentially marking a revival of Zimbabwe’s once-thriving cotton industry.
