By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
The Tobacco Board of Zambia (TBZ) has made a strong case for tobacco as a major driver of economic growth and industrial development across Africa during the Agritech Conference and Expo in Nairobi.
Speaking at the event, Tobacco Board of Zambia Executive Director Mr. Robert Mwale described tobacco as one of the few agricultural sectors capable of transforming economies across Sub-Saharan Africa through exports, employment creation, value addition, and investment opportunities.
“This is the only sector that can help liberate Africa economically. In Sub-Saharan Africa, only five countries—Zambia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Malawi—are major tobacco producers, generating more than USD 7 billion. As Africa, we can achieve much more,” said Mr. Mwale.
He noted that the overwhelming majority of tobacco produced in Zambia is exported, with only a small fraction consumed locally.
“What we produce in Zambia is probably one percent of what is consumed locally. The rest is exported. Tobacco is produced by some of the world’s strongest economies, and Africa can leverage this crop to unlock economic opportunities,” he added.
Mr. Mwale emphasized that discussions around tobacco should focus on the entire value chain, including agriculture inputs, manufacturing, logistics, exports, and job creation.
“When we talk about tobacco partnerships, we are talking about the whole value chain, including fertilizer production and agribusiness opportunities. It goes far beyond tobacco consumption. That’s why we are seeking more investors in the sector.”
He further stated that while concerns around health, environmental sustainability, and deforestation remain important, Zambia is pursuing innovative solutions aimed at balancing economic benefits with responsible production practices.
“As Zambia, we have developed various innovations and strategies to ensure there is a balance between health concerns and economic growth. We believe both objectives can be achieved.”
The Agritech Expo has brought together key players in agriculture from across Africa and beyond, providing an important platform for TBZ to engage in high-level Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings with investors, buyers, agribusiness leaders, and development partners.
Through these engagements, the Board aims to strengthen trade linkages, attract investment into Zambia’s tobacco value chain, and position the country’s tobacco industry competitively within regional and international markets.
Central to the Board’s mandate is protecting the interests of tobacco farmers by ensuring access to markets, promoting fair trade practices, and facilitating transparent marketing systems that improve farmer incomes and support long-term sector sustainability.
“TBZ remains strategic in promoting the industry and ensuring that the tobacco sector in Zambia thrives sustainably for the benefit of farmers and all stakeholders,” Mr. Mwale said.
The Board’s participation at the Agritech Expo underscores Zambia’s commitment to expanding agricultural trade opportunities, attracting investment, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and strengthening its position as a leading player in the global tobacco industry.
