Deputy Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, has urged young Tanzanians to embrace modern agriculture and acquire practical skills to boost employment and contribute to national economic growth.
Speaking at the launch of the Youth Entrepreneurship for the Future of Food and Agriculture (YEFFA) project at VETA Kihonda Technical College in Morogoro, Deputy Minister Ameir said the initiative aims to equip youth with hands-on experience in modern farming technologies, irrigation systems, and post-harvest crop management.
She emphasized that the adoption of technology in agriculture would increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, raise farmers’ incomes, and strengthen national food security.
“The government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, continues to modernize agriculture, making it more productive and competitive. Agriculture remains a key pillar of our economy, employing over 60 percent of Tanzanians,” she said.
Deputy Minister Ameir encouraged young people to seize opportunities provided by programs like YEFFA to learn new skills, establish agribusinesses, and contribute to the country’s development.
“By investing in education, technology, and innovation, our youth can transform agriculture into a major source of employment and economic growth,” she added.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that modern agriculture requires a skilled and innovative workforce capable of participating across the entire agricultural value chain.
“Today’s agriculture is no longer just about hand hoes; it is about technology, value addition, and business,” she said.
A total of 5,631 young people from 19 regions of mainland Tanzania are expected to benefit from the YEFFA training, with 762 already having received instruction in various agricultural disciplines.
Anthony Kasore, Director General of the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), said the project addresses youth unemployment, especially in rural areas, by providing skills aligned with market demands and modern technologies.
He noted that low productivity and income often result from limited practical skills, technology adoption, and post-harvest handling.
The YEFFA project, valued at USD 1.4 million (around TZS 3.5 billion), will be implemented over two years in 11 enrollment phases.
It is funded by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) and delivered through four VETA colleges: Kihonda Morogoro, Manyara, Mpanda Katavi, and Arusha.
One trainee, Abra Kingologo, a graduate of Mzumbe University, said the training has enabled her to practice modern agriculture in her community.
“I saw this as a valuable opportunity for myself, my community, and the nation,” she said.
AGRA Tanzania Resident Director Vianey Rweyendela urged youth who have undergone the training to share their skills with peers, expanding the reach of modern agricultural knowledge.
He also called on the government to continue investing in youth-focused agribusiness, skills development, and innovation.