The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to modernizing the livestock sector through improved breeding technologies and stronger animal health services, following a working visit to key national livestock institutions in Arusha.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Ms. Agnes Kisaka Meena, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing production of high-quality livestock semen at the National Artificial Insemination Centre (NAIC), saying the facility is playing a crucial role in transforming livestock farming in Tanzania.
Ms. Meena made the remarks during her inspection tour of NAIC and the Northern Zone Veterinary Centre (ZVC), where she assessed service delivery, reviewed operational progress, and listened to institutional challenges.
She said the government established NAIC to ensure farmers have access to quality breeding services at affordable cost, with the aim of improving productivity and increasing returns from livestock farming.
Ms. Meena noted that she was impressed by the modern technology used in producing improved livestock genetics, which are designed to help farmers increase milk and meat production while improving herd quality.
She called on livestock keepers across the country to adopt improved semen produced by NAIC, saying this is the most effective way to enhance productivity and access better markets locally and internationally.
She added that improved livestock breeds can help farmers increase income and contribute to national economic growth through livestock exports and value-added products.
During her visit, Ms. Meena also toured the Northern Zone Veterinary Centre (ZVC), where she was briefed on ongoing vaccination programmes aimed at controlling and eradicating major livestock diseases.
She instructed ZVC to continue ensuring availability and proper use of vaccines to support farmers in protecting their animals from diseases, including Peste des Petits Ruminants (goat and sheep plague), which continues to affect livestock in some areas.
She emphasized that disease prevention remains a key priority for the government, as it reduces losses and improves livestock productivity.
Ms. Meena further acknowledged the challenges raised by both institutions, including operational constraints, and assured that the ministry would work on addressing them to improve efficiency and service delivery.
She stressed that strengthening livestock institutions is essential for supporting farmers and ensuring that services reach even remote rural areas.
At NAIC, Acting Director Dr. Dafay Bura said the centre is continuing to educate farmers on the importance of using improved livestock genetics to boost productivity and improve herd quality.
He said awareness levels among farmers are increasing, with more livestock keepers showing interest in artificial insemination services due to its economic benefits.
Dr. Bura added that NAIC is expanding outreach programmes in collaboration with extension officers to ensure farmers across the country benefit from modern breeding technologies.
On the other hand, Acting Officer-in-Charge of ZVC Northern Zone, Dr. Robert Buluba, outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, and vaccination services.
He said the centre is intensifying early detection and response mechanisms to control livestock disease outbreaks and reduce losses among farmers.
Dr. Buluba added that vaccination campaigns are being expanded to reach more livestock keepers, especially in hard-to-reach areas, to ensure better animal health coverage.
He also noted that coordination with district veterinary offices is being strengthened to improve vaccine distribution and farmer awareness on disease prevention.
The government’s visit reflects its continued focus on improving livestock productivity through science, technology, and effective veterinary services.
Officials emphasized that livestock development remains a key driver of rural livelihoods, food security, and national economic growth, and that continued investment in breeding and animal health systems will directly benefit farmers across the country.
