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Students from Loleza Girls Secondary School have received practical training on the production and nutritional value of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes during an educational visit to the Mbeya District Council exhibition stand, as efforts intensify to promote nutrition-sensitive agriculture among young people.
The students toured the council’s agricultural pavilion to learn about modern farming technologies and key crops cultivated in the district, including orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, sunflower and biofortified maize.
Agricultural trainer Mr Robert Mtela, who cultivates the crops, guided the students through improved production techniques and highlighted their contribution to food security, nutrition and household incomes.
He said orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are increasingly being promoted because of their high Vitamin A content, a nutrient essential for strengthening immunity, improving eyesight and combating malnutrition.
“Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are not only a food crop but also an important tool in improving community nutrition. Increased production and consumption can help address Vitamin A deficiency and improve public health outcomes,” he said.
The students were also introduced to the economic potential of the crops and the role of modern farming practices in increasing productivity and resilience among smallholder farmers.
The learning session forms part of ongoing initiatives by Mbeya District Council to expose students to agricultural innovations and encourage greater youth participation in the sector.
Agriculture remains a key pillar of Tanzania’s economy, and officials say equipping young people with knowledge on climate-smart and nutrition-focused farming is critical to strengthening food systems and improving livelihoods in rural communities.
