Farmers in Mamire Ward, Babati District, Manyara Region, are set to benefit from improved post-harvest storage and market access following the construction of a large modern warehouse aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and economic opportunities.
The privately-owned facility, developed by entrepreneur Herman Mandoo, has a storage capacity of between 1,000 and 1,300 tonnes.
It is expected to ease long-standing challenges faced by local farmers, including poor storage infrastructure and limited access for bulk produce transporters.
Speaking during the inauguration, Mandoo said the decision to invest in the warehouse stemmed from the logistical barriers farmers encounter when selling their produce.
“I built this warehouse to address the difficulties farmers face in storing and transporting their crops. Beyond my own use, the facility will serve fellow farmers in the community by offering safe and secure storage space,” said Mandoo.
The project has drawn praise from national and local leaders, including the 2025 Uhuru Torch race leader, Ismail Ussi, who officiated the launch.
Ussi applauded the initiative, calling it a strategic step in strengthening the agricultural value chain in the area.
“This warehouse offers more than just storage it ensures food safety, preserves crop quality, and adds value to farmers’ harvests. It will also create job opportunities for local youth and women, which contributes to community development,” Ussi noted.
He emphasized that the presence of proper storage infrastructure will encourage farmers to retain their produce until they can access better market prices, reducing post-harvest losses and improving their incomes.
Babati District Commissioner Emmanuela Kaganda also commended Mandoo for what she described as a timely and forward-looking investment.
“This warehouse marks an important milestone for agricultural development in Babati. It reflects the power of public-private collaboration in transforming rural economies,” said Kaganda.
With agriculture being the backbone of the local economy, the facility is expected to play a key role in enhancing food security and supporting value addition efforts in the region.
It also aligns with national strategies to empower smallholder farmers and promote agribusiness-led growth across Tanzania.