António Abrunhosa is retiring after serving as ITGA c.e.o for over 20 years.
During the International Tobacco Growers’ Association (ITGA) 6th Annual General Meeting (AGM), c.e.o. António Abrunhosa announced his retirement after serving in the position since 1998. Mercedes Vázquez was appointed as his successor.
ITGA members expressed their gratitude and highlighted Abrunhosa’s extraordinary role in positioning ITGA in the global scenario as a key player in the tobacco sector. Following her appointment, Vázquez said, “In my new role I will do my best to continue this learning process from all of you so I can ensure and reinforce the long-lasting relations with our partners so we can together overcome the common challenges we are facing in our sector”.
During the AGM, Zambia’s minister of agriculture, Reuben M’Tolo Phiri, highlighted the important mission of ITGA, pointing out its main objective: to improve grower members’ livelihood through respectful agriculture practices. He also noted, "ITGA’s main strength is its members association around the world. Thanks to them ITGA can benefit from national and regional engagements and build up its global network".
ITGA president, Abiel Masache Banda, reiterated this point when he said, "ITGA and its member associations in different regions are the perfect platforms to reach out to farmers, either to work with them or to provide support when needed.”