By Our Correspondent, Dodoma
Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango has called on Tanzanian leaders at all levels to take ownership in realizing the country’s long-term development ambitions—particularly those under the National Development Vision 2050 and strategic plans for agricultural transformation aimed at achieving 10 percent annual growth in the sector by 2030.
Speaking during the official opening of the 2025 National NaneNane Agricultural Exhibition held at Nzuguni Grounds in Dodoma, Dr. Mpango said that realizing this growth target will require bold leadership that guides farmers, pastoralists, and fishers toward adopting high-value crops and modern production systems.
He emphasized the need for heavy investment in climate-smart farming, irrigation infrastructure, access to affordable financing, cold chain systems, and reliable markets, not only to meet local demand but also to make Tanzania a competitive agricultural exporter.
“We must ensure leaders are at the forefront of encouraging advanced agricultural technologies, attracting domestic and foreign investment, and promoting agribusiness as a viable economic pathway,” said the Vice President.
Dr. Mpango also highlighted the importance of building stronger linkages between farmers and institutions by promoting access to capital, extension services, and up-to-date training.
He urged leaders to facilitate cooperation among farmers, researchers, extension agents, and policymakers, noting that inclusive partnerships will strengthen value chains.
He said that deliberate efforts must also be made to promote climate-resilient practices, especially in regions vulnerable to drought.
This includes advocating for efficient land use, expanding cultivation of drought-resistant crops, and educating communities on the environmental benefits of sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Mpango encouraged leaders to raise awareness among producers and agro-processors about financing opportunities from commercial banks and other institutions already offering concessional loans to agribusiness players.
Reflecting on the progress made in the agriculture sector, Dr. Mpango attributed the achievements to coordinated efforts by farmers, development partners, and the government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He cited significant increases in public investment as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to agricultural modernization.
In the 2025/26 national budget, the Ministry of Agriculture was allocated TZS 1.243 trillion—up from TZS 229.99 billion in the 2021/22 financial year.
The Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries also saw its budget rise to TZS 476.6 billion from TZS 169.2 billion over the same period.
“These figures reflect our resolve to ensure that agriculture becomes a pillar of inclusive and sustainable development,” said Dr. Mpango, noting that funds are being directed toward input subsidies, extension services, improved access to credit, cooperative strengthening, and post-harvest infrastructure.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Minister for Agriculture, Singida Regional Commissioner Halima Dendego reaffirmed that the ministry, together with stakeholders will continue implementing priority interventions aimed at increasing productivity, generating decent employment, and enhancing youth and women’s participation in agriculture.
She said the ministry is also focused on improving food and nutrition security, market access, export readiness, cooperative development, and digitization of agricultural systems.
“The ministry continues to advise and empower farmers to conserve the environment, protect water sources, plant trees, and adopt appropriate technologies that sustain production,” Dendego noted.
This year’s NaneNane exhibition is themed: "Choose Good Leaders for Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries 2025".
The theme underscores the importance of effective leadership in enhancing productivity across the sector—particularly as the country prepares for the General Election in October 2025.