By Charles Mkoka
Morogoro Regional Commissioner, Hon. Adam Kighoma Malima, has urged stakeholders in the agriculture, livestock, and environmental sectors to seize the opportunity of the major Agribusiness Expo set to take place in Gairo District from October 6 to October 12, 2024.
Speaking at a press briefing on sept 15, Malima emphasized that the event will gather all key players involved in the agricultural, livestock, and environmental value chains. He explained that the expo aims to connect farmers, livestock keepers, input suppliers, processors, financial institutions, research organizations, government and non-governmental organizations, insurance and social security bodies, and other service providers. It will serve as a platform for participants to explore innovative practices, technology, and business opportunities.
Malima highlighted the significance of the expo, noting that farmers and livestock keepers will have the chance to learn modern farming and livestock techniques that could help combat poverty and improve productivity.
Gairo District Commissioner, Hon. Jabiri Makame, underscored the importance of the event for Gairo residents, pointing out that over 95% of the district's population is engaged in agriculture and livestock farming. "This is a critical opportunity for them to elevate their practices and increase income," he said.
In the lead-up to the expo, two crucial forums will be held: SAMIA MIFUGO FURSA FORUM on September 19, 2024, and SAMIA KILIMO FURSA FORUM – HORTICULTURE (MBOGA, MBOGA, NA MATUNDA) on October 24 and 25, 2024. These forums, named after President Samia Suluhu Hassan, aim to provide a focused discussion on livestock and horticultural opportunities, aligning with the government's broader efforts to transform these sectors.
The initiatives are part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s ambitious Agenda 10/30 strategy, which seeks to drive the agricultural sector’s growth from 4.2% in 2023 to 10% by 2030, a cornerstone in the government's bid to revolutionize agriculture and livestock sectors.
The SAMIA KILIMO BIASHARA EXPO 2024 will spotlight five key areas: citizen participation in local government elections, commercial agriculture and livestock farming, clean cooking energy, carbon trading opportunities, health and nutrition, and cooperative systems, including the Warehouse Receipt System.
The expo, themed "Protect the Environment and Participate in Local Government Elections for Agricultural and Livestock Development," is expected to attract a wide array of stakeholders and further promote the modernization of Tanzania’s agricultural and livestock sectors.