Songwe Regional Commissioner Jabiri Makame has sounded a strong warning to traders involved in smuggling government-subsidised fertiliser out of the country, stressing that those caught will face the full force of the law.
Speaking during a tour of exhibition stalls at the ongoing Nane Nane Agricultural Fair at John Mwakangale Grounds in Mbeya, the RC said the government, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has invested billions of shillings in subsidising fertiliser to support farmers and ensure food security.
“This fertiliser is meant to transform the lives of Tanzanian farmers not to benefit illegal traders or neighbouring countries,” Mr Makame said.
“Anyone found smuggling subsidised fertiliser will be dealt with severely. We will not allow this economic sabotage to continue.”he added
The warning comes amid concerns that some dishonest traders are exploiting the government’s goodwill by diverting fertiliser meant for smallholder farmers and selling it across the border for profit.
Joshua Ng’ondya, Southern Highlands Zonal Manager for the Tanzania Fertiliser Regulatory Authority (TFRA), confirmed that fertiliser use in Songwe is on the rise and that more than 80 percent of farmers in the region have already been registered in the government’s digital fertiliser distribution system.
“The digital system has enhanced transparency and helped ensure fertiliser goes to the right hands,” said Mr Ng’ondya. “Our focus now is to tighten monitoring to curb leakages and safeguard public resources.”
A farmer interviewed at the exhibition credited the subsidy programme for improving his productivity.
“I used to cultivate a small portion of land because I couldn’t afford fertiliser,” he said. “Now, thanks to the government’s support, I can expand my farm and get better yields.”
The government’s fertiliser subsidy programme is part of broader efforts to boost agricultural output and reduce the cost of living. Authorities say any actions undermining the initiative will not be tolerated.
Mr Makame urged the public to report anyone suspected of hoarding or smuggling fertiliser, adding that community vigilance is crucial to protecting national interests.