The Tanzania Fertilizer Regulatory Authority (TFRA) has advised coffee farmers in Mbinga District to adopt proper farming practices and modern technology to increase productivity, create more job opportunities, and reduce poverty.
TFRA Board Chairperson, Dr. Diallo, gave this advice on May 27, during a visit to the Mbinga Farmers’ Coffee Cooperative Union (MBIFACU). The visit is part of TFRA’s monitoring mission for the fertilizer subsidy program, which targets strategic crops like coffee and avocado in the Southern Highlands.
Dr. Diallo said that the investment a farmer makes in one acre of coffee must match the expected harvest. For this to happen, farmers must use knowledge and science in their farming methods.
“Good farming practices and the right use of technology are key to high yields. Without them, the efforts and money invested by farmers will not bring the desired results,” he explained.
He also urged farmers to stop relying on fertilizer brand names and instead focus on the nutrients needed by their soil. He encouraged them to buy fertilizers that match the condition of their farms.
While visiting the Mbinga District Commissioner, Kanisius Marco, Dr. Diallo asked the district office to follow up on soil test results conducted for farmers.
He stressed the importance of using the soil scanning tools that have been given to agricultural officers. This will help farmers avoid losses caused by using the wrong fertilizers out of habit.
DC Marco praised the good cooperation between TFRA and local leaders at all levels, from the region to the village.
He said this teamwork helps reach more farmers and solve their problems quickly.
“Since I arrived in Mbinga, I have not received any complaints about fertilizer shortages. That shows the system is working well,” the DC said.
Speaking on behalf of the Ruvuma Regional Agriculture Department, officer Onesmo Mpuya thanked the government for the subsidy program.
He said that before the program, they could only estimate how much fertilizer farmers used. But now, with the new digital input system, they can get accurate information and plan better for future farming seasons.
Michael Kanduyu, Chairman of MBIFACU, also thanked the government. He said the fertilizer subsidy program had helped increase coffee production in Mbinga from 16,000 tonnes to 24,000 tonnes.
“This growth has improved the lives of many coffee farmers and made their work more rewarding,” he said.
This visit by TFRA shows the government’s strong focus on improving agriculture through science and policy.
By encouraging modern methods, the aim is to increase production and reduce losses caused by outdated habits. Better farming practices mean better harvests, more income for families, and stronger rural economies.
For coffee farmers in Mbinga, applying these lessons could be the key to lasting success in the sector.
