Cotton Indaba Charts Revival Path

 

Zimbabwe’s cotton industry is poised for revival following the Cotton Indaba held in Kadoma yesterday under the theme “Revitalising Zimbabwe’s White Gold Towards a Sustainable Competitive Sector.”

The meeting, convened by the Agricultural Marketing Authority, brought together farmers, ginners, spinners, and policymakers to craft strategies aimed at restoring cotton’s pivotal economic role.

Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Vangelis Haritatos, who was Guest of Honour, said protecting the sector had become urgent.

“Safeguarding the crop is a matter of national urgency,” he said. “There is need for strict enforcement of contract-farming regulations, a comprehensive biometric grower registry, and well-defined zoning to shield farmers, curb side-marketing, and attract fresh investment.”

He told delegates that cotton, once known as Zimbabwe’s “white gold,” must again become a cornerstone of the agricultural economy through climate-smart practices, stronger regulation, and improved value-chain linkages.

The Indaba resolved to expand climate-smart cotton farming and strengthen synergies with local textile industries.

“The strategies we are putting in place, supported by research and a Price Stabilisation Fund, will boost jobs and strengthen Zimbabwe’s economy,” said Deputy Minister Haritatos.

He described the Indaba as a strong call to reinvigorate the nation’s cotton industry and ensure the sector once again contributes significantly to food security, employment, and industrial growth.