Impact of Drought on Zimbabwe's Tobacco Production
Zimbabwe, Africa's largest tobacco producer, is facing a sharp decline in harvests and quality due to a drought blamed on climate change and worsened by the El Niño weather phenomenon. Small-scale farmers, who rely on rain, are the most affected.
Key Points
- Zimbabwe projects a significant decrease in tobacco production due to drought.
- Drought worsened by climate change and El Niño.
- Small-scale farmers, who depend on rain, are vulnerable to weather conditions.
- Tobacco is a crucial foreign currency earner for Zimbabwe.
- Farmers face financial challenges due to poor quality and reduced harvests.
Pros
- Tobacco is one of Zimbabwe's major foreign currency earners.
Cons
- Sharp decline in tobacco harvests and quality.
- Small-scale farmers heavily impacted due to reliance on rain.
- Farmers facing financial difficulties and need for food assistance.