By Our Correspondent, Mbeya
Barley farmers in Mbeya District have urged the government and agricultural stakeholders to guarantee markets and ensure timely delivery of seeds, saying the move would encourage more farmers to invest in the crop and expand production.
The appeal comes as local authorities and private sector partners intensify efforts to promote barley cultivation as an alternative cash crop and a source of raw materials for the brewing industry.
Speaking to journalists on August 1, Muungano Village farmer Maiko Mbwilo said uncertainty over prices and market access remains a key concern for growers despite growing interest in the crop.
"Farmers need confidence that there will be a reliable market and fair prices for their produce. Once that assurance is in place, more people will be willing to allocate larger portions of their land to barley production," he said.
Mbwilo noted that delayed seed distribution affected planting schedules during the 2025 season, reducing productivity in some areas. He explained that barley performs best when planted early and under favourable moisture conditions.
According to him, fields located in suitable agro-ecological zones have shown encouraging results, demonstrating the crop's potential in the district.
"We have seen promising yields in areas where conditions were favourable. If seeds reach farmers on time next season, production and quality are expected to improve significantly," he said.
The growing interest in barley farming was also highlighted at the Nanenane agricultural exhibition held at the John Mwakangale Grounds in Mbeya, where local authorities showcased demonstration plots to promote the crop.
Mbeya District Council's Head of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Division, Cuthbert Mwinuka, said the council has been encouraging farmers to cultivate barley to help meet rising demand from Serengeti Breweries Limited (SBL).
He said the company has distributed free seeds to farmers as part of efforts to build a sustainable local supply chain and reduce reliance on imported raw materials.
"Serengeti Breweries requires substantial quantities of barley for its production processes. The company has already provided seeds to farmers, and through demonstration farms we are showing that the crop can thrive in Mbeya's conditions. Some farmers have already started harvesting," he said.
Mwinuka said preliminary results indicate that barley is adapting well to the district's climate and could become an important source of income for farming households.
He added that the crop offers farmers a viable diversification opportunity, supported by demand from industry and favourable production conditions.
Agricultural extension officer Lemi Jackson said the long-term success of barley farming would depend on addressing key constraints, particularly access to quality seeds, competitive prices and dependable markets.
"Farmers are interested in the crop and are ready to increase production. What they need is assurance that the necessary inputs and market opportunities will be available when required," he said.
As Tanzania seeks to strengthen agricultural value chains and expand agro-industrial development, stakeholders see barley production as a potential avenue for increasing farmer incomes while supporting domestic manufacturing.