The National Service (JKT) is stepping up efforts to encourage young Tanzanians to view agriculture, livestock keeping and fisheries as viable business opportunities, challenging long-held perceptions that the sectors are only suited to rural communities and older generations.
JKT says its training programmes are increasingly focused on equipping youth with practical skills that can help them create their own employment and contribute to the country's productive economy.
Speaking during a tour of JKT exhibition plots and pavilions at the NaneNane Agricultural Exhibition grounds in Morogoro, Colonel Cleopatra Callistus Nazar said the institution combines defence and civic training with entrepreneurship-oriented skills development.
“Beyond training young people on national security and civic responsibilities, we are investing in building their capacity to utilise opportunities in agriculture, livestock and fisheries so that they can become self-reliant,” she said.
According to her, JKT is exposing trainees to modern technologies and production methods that can improve productivity and profitability across the three sectors.
She noted that many young people who complete JKT training programmes leave with the confidence and skills needed to pursue self-employment, helping to reduce dependence on formal government jobs.
“The mindset that employment opportunities exist only in the public sector is gradually changing. We want young people to recognise that they can create their own opportunities through productive ventures,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms Miriam Abdull, said the training had transformed her perception of farming and related activities.
“Previously, I viewed farming and livestock keeping as occupations for elderly people in rural areas. The training changed my perspective. Today, even though I live in an urban area, I maintain small gardens and apply the knowledge I gained through JKT,” she said.
She added that the programme introduced participants to modern farming techniques that allow high yields to be achieved even on limited land.
Her experience, she said, demonstrates how agriculture can become an attractive and sustainable source of income for young people when supported by skills, technology and access to information.
The initiative aligns with broader national efforts to increase youth participation in agriculture and other productive sectors as Tanzania seeks to create jobs, strengthen food security and accelerate economic growth.
