By 
Chief Chanje of the Chewa-speaking people in Eastern Province has raised concern over the failure by the Tobacco Board of Zambia (TBZ) to distribute tree seedlings to tobacco farmers during the current farming season.
In a statement issued in Chipangali District, the chief said tobacco remained one of the most profitable cash crops for small-scale farmers and contributes significantly to household incomes and the national economy.
However, he warned that the growing number of farmers cultivating flue-cured tobacco had intensified environmental risks due to the continued cutting of trees for barn construction and leaf curing.
“The absence of a tree seedling distribution programme this season places the environment at a high risk of deforestation and threatens the long-term sustainability of the tobacco industry if urgent corrective measures are not taken,” he said.
Chief Chanje urged TBZ to prioritise reforestation initiatives and ensure tree-planting programme were integrated into tobacco production.
He further called on tobacco merchants and the Board to strengthen collaboration with traditional leaders, saying chiefs were ready to partner in efforts to promote sustainable farming practices.
“Chiefs are ready and willing to work together with the Board and other stakeholders to ensure that tobacco farming is conducted in a sustainable manner that protects the environment for future generations,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting responsible land management and urged all stakeholders in the tobacco value chain to balance economic gains with environmental sustainability.
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