The Tobacco Commission (TC) has announced that the crop assessment exercise would be concluded on Friday this week.

TC Corporate Planning and Development Manager Hellings Naso confirmed that the results will be available after the Ministry of Agriculture approves.

The 2021 market season will be overseen by newly appointed TC Chief Executive Officer Joseph Chidanti Malung. TC board chairperson Harry Mkandawire on Sunday confirmed the hiring of Chidanti Malunga, after 40 applicants and were shortlisted to 18 candidates. “I am glad to say that he came out number one,” said Mkandawire. “… let me emphasize that the selection was done on merit and in the interest of the tobacco industry.”

Chidanti Malunga holds a PhD in wetland farming obtained fromCranfield University, UK, in 2010, brings to the commission 26 years experience in the agriculture sector, particularly in policy formulation, implementation, research, outreach,and legislation. He also holds a master of science in agricultural engineering from Colorado State University, USA, which he obtained in 1999.