The Tobacco Board of Zambia (TBZ) has issued a strong warning to tobacco growers in Lumezi District against engaging with an entity identified as “STACKEM TOBACCO,” describing it as an unlicensed and illegal operator.
In a statement issued to the media by TBZ Corporate Affairs and Communication Manager, Lee Haamunji, disclosed that the Board has received reports of the company mobilising farmers and charging a K120 registration fee with promises of purchasing tobacco.
TBZ clarified that “STACKEM Tobacco” is neither licensed nor recognised to operate in the country’s tobacco sector.
Mr Haamunji said the Board will not tolerate illegal activities that threaten the livelihoods of farmers and the integrity of the tobacco industry.
“We wish to make it clear that STACKEM Tobbaco is not licensed to contract growers, purchase tobacco, or collect any fees from farmers. Any such activities are illegal and will attract the full force of the law,” he said.
The Board further revealed that for the 2025/2026 marketing season, only 16 companies have been officially licensed to operate as tobacco buyers in Zambia.
He cautioned farmers against the risks of dealing with unregistered entities.
“Farmers who engage with unlicensed operators expose themselves to serious risks, including non-payment and lack of legal protection. We strongly urge all growers to transact only with duly licensed buyers approved by the Board,” Mr Haamunji stated.
TBZ emphasised that any individual or company found buying or marketing tobacco without a valid license is in violation of the law and will face prosecution under the Tobacco Act.
He has since urged farmers to avoid paying any fees or delivering tobacco to STACKEM Tobbaco or any other unlicensed operators.
Mr Haamunji has also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious or illegal activities to the authorities, reaffirming its commitment to protecting farmers and ensuring transparency in the tobacco sector.
