Young people in Tanzania are being urged to seize opportunities in tea farming as a reliable source of employment and income.
The call comes as Mponde Tea Factory provides a guaranteed market for the crop, offering a pathway for youth-led agribusiness and sustainable livelihoods.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Welfare and Community Development encouraged youths and residents of Lushoto District, Tanga Region, to actively participate in the tea value chain, including establishing their own plantations.
During a visit to the factory on March 14, 2026, the committee stressed that tea cultivation could generate significant income for young farmers, thanks to the presence of a local processing facility that purchases and processes tea.
Hawa Mchafu, the committee chairperson, led Members of Parliament during the inspection of the factory a joint venture between the Public Service Social Security Fund (PSSSF) and the Workers Compensation Fund (WCF).
She said: “Many young people are avoiding tea farming, leaving it to the elders. We want to ensure this factory continues receiving sufficient raw materials. Young people must be encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity because the market here at Mponde is guaranteed.”
Deus Sangu, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Labour, Employment, and Relations, said the factory markets its tea both locally and internationally through direct contracts, tea auctions, and local buyers.
He added that between October and December 2025, the factory sold 220,762 kilograms of tea, generating approximately TZS 779 million in revenue.
The factory benefits more than 3,500 tea farmers and provides 79 permanent jobs, along with 100 to 300 seasonal positions depending on the harvest period.
Muhoja Manane, the factory’s Managing Director, said the facility plans to continue producing high-quality tea that meets international standards to attract investors and expand its global market presence.
The parliamentary committee continues its tour inspecting projects implemented by the Prime Minister’s Office Labour, Employment, and Relations, along with institutions such as PSSSF, WCF, NSSF, and CMA.
