Cashew farmers in Dodoma Region have received training organized by the Cashew Nut Board of Tanzania (CBT) in collaboration with the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) Liyendele and TPHPA, aimed at improving knowledge and skills in modern cashew farming.
The training sessions, conducted in various councils across the region, focused on proper pesticide use, pest and disease control, and improved agronomic practices in cashew cultivation.
Farmers who attended the sessions said the training had provided them with new knowledge that could help improve farm management and productivity.
Bosco Mesela, a farmer from Mpwapwa District, said the training had taught him how to correctly use pesticides and apply them at the right time to reduce damage caused by pests and diseases.
Another farmer, Modesta Muhamilawa, said many farmers previously lacked sufficient technical knowledge on cashew production, but the training had helped address some of those gaps.
She added that cashew farming remains an important source of income for households in Dodoma Region, and better farming practices could contribute to improved production.
Mpwapwa Town Ward Councillor George Fuime said farmers in the area had shown interest in applying the knowledge gained during the training, particularly on farm management and input use.
A representative from the Cashew Nut Board of Tanzania headquarters in Mtwara, Pafra Masele, said the programme aimed to provide farmers with correct information on modern cashew farming techniques and safe use of pesticides.
He added that the board would continue working with stakeholders to extend agricultural training and support to farmers in different regions.
TARI Liyendele researcher Abdallah Makale said the training was important because some farmers had been facing challenges related to pests and diseases due to limited technical knowledge.
CCM Mpwapwa District Secretary for Political Affairs and Publicity, Mguto Mathew, said improving agricultural knowledge among farmers could support productivity in the central zone, where cashew farming is practiced.
