Independent tobacco farmers in Lundazi district are stuck with their produce following a decision by some tobacco companies not to buy the crop from them.
This has disappointed the farmers who have now turned to government to assist address the situation.
The farmers have expressed their disappointment in a letter addressed to Eastern Province Permanent Secretary dated April 26, which was made available to Breeze News in Lundazi.
The tobacco farmers, who have the support from Lundazi District Business Association, have demanded that other buyers be allowed to buy tobacco from independent farmers.
The disappointed farmers have indicated that they want to empower themselves and assist to contribute to national growth.
The farmers have called on government and other stakeholders to intervene.
Over 40 independent growers have signed against the move not to buy from independent growers.