By Our Reporter
Tanzania is increasing investment in irrigation, agricultural research, quality seeds and processing infrastructure as part of efforts to raise productivity and make farming more attractive to young people.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba outlined the measures during talks with Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) president Alice Ruhweza on October 21, 2026, on the sidelines of the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, in the United States.
Dr Nchemba was attending the international meeting on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He said the government was investing in irrigation, quality seed production, research, agricultural extension services, storage facilities and crop-processing infrastructure to strengthen the sector and improve its contribution to the economy.
The investments are intended to address challenges affecting agricultural production while creating opportunities for farmers to increase output and earn more from their produce.
Dr Nchemba also highlighted efforts to address barriers preventing young people from entering agriculture, particularly limited access to land, training and finance.
He said the government was helping young people access land, acquire agricultural skills and establish links with banks to obtain financing for seeds, farming equipment and other inputs.
Access to finance remains important for young farmers seeking to move into commercial production, as the cost of inputs and equipment can limit their ability to start or expand agricultural businesses.
The government’s approach seeks to position farming as a viable business for young people while strengthening the systems needed to support production, storage and value addition.
Investment in processing and storage infrastructure could also help reduce post-harvest losses and enable farmers to retain more value from their crops, although the benefits will depend on the availability and accessibility of these facilities.
The meeting with AGRA’s president provided an opportunity to discuss Tanzania’s agricultural priorities with an organisation that works to support agricultural transformation in Africa.
The discussions come as Tanzania seeks to increase agricultural productivity, expand economic opportunities for young people and strengthen food security through investment across the agricultural value chain.