The Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB) is driving economic transformation in Zanzibar by extending affordable loans, financial training, and market access to farmers, livestock keepers, and fishers.
Speaking during the Nane Nane National Exhibition in Dodoma on August 5, 2025, TADB Zanzibar Regional Manager, Mr. Singoi, said the bank has supported a range of development projects aimed at improving productivity and incomes in key economic sectors.
“TADB has financed projects in irrigation farming, modern livestock keeping, sustainable fishing, and agro-processing. Many of these are youth- and women-led initiatives across the agricultural value chain,” he said.
So far, 43 projects have received direct support, including seven owned by women and four by youth. Ten of the projects are cooperative-based—eight in Pemba and two in Unguja. All are now linked to formal banking systems and reliable markets.
The bank’s portfolio in Zanzibar includes clove farming, commercial poultry production, cage fish farming, and integrated agriculture. TADB also offers business and agribusiness training, helping new farmers shift from subsistence to commercial farming.
Mr. Singoi noted that over 200 individuals have benefited through access to 352 improved dairy cows valued at TZS 993.3 million. In addition, recipients received TZS 222 million in blended grants to reduce the burden of loan repayment and boost productivity.
TADB is also working with the Zanzibar Livestock Department and Heifer International to improve animal husbandry.
The support includes training in modern livestock practices, access to improved breeds, proper animal nutrition, and equipment such as fodder choppers, veterinary kits, extension motorcycles, and milk collection infrastructure.
So far, 1,583 livestock keepers, including 453 women, have been reached through this program.
The bank is also planning to support new initiatives in marine farming, such as sea cucumber cultivation, and agro-processing projects managed by youth and women.
For the 2025 financial year, TADB has allocated TZS 22 billion for Zanzibar. Out of this, TZS 16 billion is directed to clove farming, TZS 3.8 billion to poultry projects, TZS 1.1 billion to dairy farming, and TZS 1.2 billion to horticulture development.
