The government has reiterated its commitment to working hand-in-hand with farmers to ensure that challenges in the agricultural sector are addressed swiftly, with a focus on improving productivity and strengthening food security.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, responsible for Crop Development and Food Security, Dr. Stephen Nindi, made the remarks during a special meeting held at the Uyole Basin in Mbeya on September 3, 2025.
The gathering, which centered on raising awareness about fertilizer use, brought together government leaders, agricultural experts, and farmers a partnership seen as critical to advancing Tanzania’s farming sector.
Mbeya Regional Administrative Secretary, Mr. Rodrick Mpogolo, underscored the region’s strategic role as an agricultural hub in the Southern Highlands.
He pointed out that the government continues to intensify soil testing and other measures aimed at boosting yields.
He cited rice, tea, avocado, and cocoa as among the crops that, if better supported, could transform farmers’ incomes and the wider economy.
Farmers from the Iganjo irrigation scheme welcomed the government’s initiatives but highlighted the need for greater access to affordable inputs and reliable extension services.
They noted that consistent delivery of these services directly at the farm level would help increase both yields and crop quality.
Many also commended the government’s collaboration with institutions such as the Tanzania Fertilizer Regulatory Authority (TFRA) and the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), which are already engaged in soil testing and offering guidance on proper fertilizer application.
Farmers, however, stressed that such programs should be scaled up to benefit more producers across the region.
Experts at the meeting assured farmers that additional measures are underway, including the introduction of fertilizer packaging suited for smallholder farmers, stricter enforcement to ensure dealers clearly display subsidized fertilizer prices, and an accelerated rollout of soil testing services throughout Mbeya.
In his keynote address, Dr. Nindi urged farmers to register in the national farmers’ database to qualify for subsidies and other support.
He also called for the establishment of demonstration farms in collaboration with stakeholders to expand knowledge-sharing.
“Our goal is to ensure that extension services reach farmers regularly, enabling them to adopt better practices and improve their harvests,” he said.
The meeting closed with renewed optimism, with farmers expressing confidence that the government’s directives and interventions will help address long-standing challenges.
Many left with a stronger sense of partnership, viewing agriculture not just as a livelihood but as a key driver of Tanzania’s economic transformation.