More than 2,500 residents of Ilindi Ward in Bahi District, Dodoma Region, have benefited from a project promoting sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and environmental conservation.
Implemented through integrated sunflower farming, Lozera cultivation, and beekeeping, the initiative aims to improve livelihoods while addressing the impacts of climate change.
The project, managed by Chamlagwa Live, combines farming with environmental protection to increase incomes and safeguard natural resources.
Speaking after a visit by the Small Grants Program (SGP) steering committee from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), coordinated by the Office of the Vice President, project participants said the initiative has significantly increased crop yields, household incomes, and community well-being.
Michael Mlonga, coordinator of Chamwiilee Agro-Live Group, said the project has strengthened farmers’ sunflower production and introduced beekeeping, which has added value to their produce.
“Beekeeping alongside sunflower farming allows farmers to benefit from two products at the same time sunflower seeds and honey while improving pollination and overall yields,” said Faustine Ninga, national coordinator of the UNDP-GEF SGP and a beekeeping expert.
Rose Sudai, a project participant, said, “We have gained modern farming skills and knowledge on environmental conservation. Our income has increased through sunflower products and honey sales.”
Dr. Damas Mapunda, chairman of the SGP Steering Committee from the Office of the Vice President, said the visit aimed to monitor project implementation and assess its economic and environmental benefits.
“The initiative empowers communities to use available resources sustainably while mitigating the effects of climate change,” he said.
Funded with USD 50,000, the 18-month project, which started in September 2024, has enabled farmers to acquire 13 acres of land for demonstration and production, purchase a sunflower oil press, and set up 50 beehives.
High-quality sunflower seeds have also been distributed across Bahi District to ensure a steady supply for oil production.
Local environmental organizations implementing the project have been strengthened, with the Tanzania Natural Resources Forum (TNRF) supporting sustainable biodiversity conservation.
This initiative is among 48 projects funded under the UNDP-GEF SGP (2023–2025) and overseen by the Office of the Vice President, reflecting Tanzania’s growing commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience.
