Harare — A GROUP of selected farmers has started receiving tractors and other agricultural equipment in Gutu North to venture into tobacco farming.

They received the equipment under an ambitious programme to grow about 1 200 hectares of tobacco as part of efforts to resuscitate production of the crop in the area.

At least 80 farmers have since been identified in the former commercial farming areas of Eastdale and Zoma for the programme run by Farmers' World. Gutu North Member of the House of Assembly Cde Lovemore Matuke yesterday said concerted efforts were underway to revive tobacco production in his constituency.

He said so far nine farmers had received tractors and disc harrows from Farmers' World.

"Our overall aim is to avail more tractors and other related equipment to at least 80 farmers so that the constituency is fully mechanised and geared for tobacco production.

"This programme to resuscitate tobacco production in Gutu North has been on the cards for the past five years and we want to grow a unique type of the crop here," said Cde Matuke.