The Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI) has been directed to align its research agenda with value addition in livestock products to enable the country to compete effectively in international markets and significantly increase exports.
The directive was issued by the Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Ambassador Dr Bashiru Ally Kakurwa, during an inspection visit to the institute on December 15, 2025, in Dodoma.
He said the move was in line with the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) manifesto, which prioritises modern, commercial and productive livestock farming.
Dr Kakurwa said research conducted by TALIRI should directly support national export targets, noting that Tanzania aims to increase livestock product exports from the current 14,000 tonnes to 50,000 tonnes by 2030.
“I have three key requests. First, your research must focus on adding value to livestock products, particularly for export markets, so that sales increase from 14,000 tonnes to 50,000 tonnes by 2030,” he said.
He also called on the institute to strengthen research on climate change resilience, stressing the importance of collaboration between research institutions under the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries and those under the Ministry of Water.
Such cooperation, he said, would help improve grazing areas and ensure sustainable water availability for livestock.
The minister further urged TALIRI to develop a clear strategy for transforming the poultry subsector, which he described as a critical driver of growth in the livestock industry.
He said researchers should engage directly with poultry farmers to address their challenges, particularly youth and women who are increasingly involved in the sector.
“We want to transform the poultry sector in this country. To achieve this, researchers must reach farmers where they are and work with them to solve their challenges, especially youth and women who are playing a vital role,” Dr Kakurwa said.
In response, TALIRI Director General Prof Erick Komba said the minister’s directives were already reflected in the institute’s research implementation frameworks.
He assured that TALIRI would fully implement the guidance to support government priorities.
“All the issues raised are within our capacity and expertise. We will work to ensure that the vision of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the objectives of the ministry and those of the institute are realised, with the ultimate goal of increasing farmers’ incomes and strengthening the national economy,” Prof Komba said.