The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Industry, Trade, Agriculture, and Livestock has urged the government to allocate sufficient funds to the livestock sector to raise the value of livestock products in international markets.
Committee Chairman Deo Mwanyika made the call during a visit to Mvomero District, where the government launched a livestock identification and vaccination campaign.
Mwanyika said the exercise is ongoing and requires significant funding, urging the government to provide resources promptly.
“Our role as a committee is to push for timely and adequate funding. So far, the national vaccination and identification program has reached 65.8 percent of the target thanks to the funds provided,” he said.
He noted that Mvomero District aims to vaccinate and identify 150,000 cattle, but only 15,853 animals 13 percent have been covered.
He called on the local council to take extra measures, stressing that farmers should see the program as their own, not just a Ministry initiative.
He said this would benefit the community and allow councils to collect revenue from livestock trade.
Mwanyika also commended farmers, through the Tanzania Livestock Keepers Association (CCWT), for their cooperation and positive response to the program.
“When our committee visits areas like this, we want to hear the real challenges. Citizens are our eyes and ears, and your feedback is crucial,” he said.
He added that the results are visible, but stronger efforts are needed to ensure the livestock sector contributes more to national revenue and improves community welfare.
Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Ambassador Dr. Bashiru Ally Kakurwa, said the agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors have been prioritized in Tanzania’s 25-year development plan.
He highlighted improvements in governance and farmer engagement, which have helped support the vaccination program.
Dr. Kakurwa also stressed the need to address animal health and nutrition, especially given prolonged droughts that have affected livestock.
He noted that the government has provided seed subsidies and supportive infrastructure to help farmers.
“The Ministry encourages farmers to invest in feed, dams, water troughs, and wells. Banks and financial institutions should provide accessible loans to support livestock farming,” he said.
Tanzania Livestock Keepers Association Secretary-General Mathayo Daniel called on the government to continue educating farmers, as some still lack sufficient knowledge about livestock management.
Daniel said the association supports government efforts, which have allowed farmers to gain profits, access international markets, and work closely with authorities.
“We also request the Ministry to schedule regular vaccinations for diseases like foot-and-mouth disease and support farmers with land allocation from areas cleared by the President,” he said.
