Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba on Monday met the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Alvaro Lario, in Nairobi, Kenya, where the two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in climate-resilient agriculture, agribusiness and economic empowerment.
The meeting focused on strengthening Tanzania’s partnership with International Fund for Agricultural Development in key sectors aimed at improving agricultural productivity, food security and rural livelihoods.
Dr. Mwigulu said Tanzania remains committed to working closely with IFAD in promoting climate-smart farming, digital transformation in agriculture and inclusive economic opportunities for youth and women.
He said the government is also seeking continued support in implementing strategic agricultural projects, including programmes to increase sunflower production as part of broader efforts to improve domestic edible oil supply and reduce imports.
“It was a constructive meeting because our cooperation with IFAD has existed for many years through a number of development projects, especially in productive sectors,” Dr. Mwigulu said.
The Prime Minister noted that Tanzania is increasingly transforming traditional food crops into commercial commodities capable of driving trade and generating income for farmers.
“Crops that were previously considered only for food consumption are now becoming commercial crops and part of Tanzania’s growing trade with other countries,” he said.
Dr. Mwigulu added that Tanzania is looking to expand cooperation with IFAD in the livestock sector as well as marine and fisheries development projects in Zanzibar.
He said sustainable agriculture remains central to Tanzania’s strategy for addressing the effects of climate change while strengthening rural economies.
“Our cooperation will also focus on sustainable agriculture initiatives that support the country’s efforts to combat climate change,” he said.
Speaking after the meeting, IFAD President Alvaro Lario said the organisation is committed to aligning its programmes with the objectives of Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050.
“We are looking forward to understanding Tanzania’s priorities so we can support the country in areas such as food security, agricultural value addition and sustainable rural development,” he said.
