Cottco partners ZRP to secure cotton production

Cottco partners ZRP to secure cotton production

Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa

The Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (Cottco) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have announced a joint effort to secure the production and marketing of cotton produced under the Presidential Input Scheme (PIS). The partnership aims to ensure the integrity of the cotton value chain and protect farmers from exploitation.

Cottco, the official off-taker of all seed cotton produced under the PIS, is committed to ensuring the success of the program by providing farmers with immediate payments for their cotton, creating rural development and bolstering the cotton value chain in line with the National Development Strategy 1 and vision 2030.

Farmers are strongly encouraged to secure their funds and minimize the risks of robberies by delivering their cotton directly to Cottco. Under the PIS, farmers receive inputs such as seeds, chemicals, fertilizers, tillage and agronomy support at no cost. In return, they are expected to establish, maintain and deliver seed cotton to Cottco when marketing commences.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police will ensure that the law takes its course on anyone found to be side-marketing seed cotton produced through Presidential Input Scheme (PIS). Any buyer who tries to influence farmers to engage in side marketing activities will be brought to book.

This partnership is expected to strengthen the cotton industry in Zimbabwe and contribute to the country’s economic growth.