The Tanzania Livestock Research Institute has been officially handed over a modern conference facility aimed at accelerating the transfer of livestock technologies to farmers and other stakeholders, in a move expected to boost productivity and transform the sector.
The facility, handed over on April 13, 2026 in Tanga, will serve as a key platform for training, knowledge-sharing and collaboration among livestock officers, farmers, researchers and private sector actors.
Speaking during the handover ceremony on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, the Director of Research, Training and Extension, Mr Samwel Mdachi, said the building was constructed through funding from the Maziwa Faida Project.
The project is jointly implemented by TALIRI and the Livestock Training Agency, with financial support from Ireland through Teagasc. It targets dairy farmers in the Eastern Zone, covering regions such as Tanga, Morogoro, Dar es Salaam and Pwani.
Mr Mdachi said the development reflects the government’s continued commitment under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to strengthen the livestock sector by mobilising resources and supporting key development projects.
He noted that the new facility will provide an enabling environment for stakeholders to acquire modern livestock skills, exchange experiences and adopt innovative technologies to improve production.
TALIRI Director General, Prof. Erick Komba, said the centre will play a critical role in disseminating research-based technologies to farmers, helping them increase livestock productivity and improve the quality of meat and milk.
He added that TALIRI continues to develop and promote technologies aimed at boosting production, improving livestock resilience and addressing the effects of climate change.
On his part, TALIRI Eastern Zone Director, Dr Zabron Nziku, said the Maziwa Faida Project has already delivered tangible results, including the identification of improved pasture suitable for coastal areas.
The pasture, locally known as “nyakabindu” and scientifically called Cenchrus ciliaris, is drought-resistant and rich in nutrients, making it ideal for dairy farming.
He stressed that quality livestock production depends heavily on proper feeding, noting that improved pasture can significantly increase milk yields and enhance quality.
The new conference facility is expected to fast-track the adoption of such innovations, positioning the livestock sector for sustainable growth and greater contribution to the national economy.
