MWE Correspondent
The Tanzanian government is taking bold steps to revamp the cotton industry in the Simiyu Region, aiming to improve farmers’ livelihoods and increase national agricultural output.
Speaking to residents during a public rally in Bariadi District, Amos Makalla, who serves as the Secretary for Ideology, Publicity, and Training of the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), said the government is committed to ensuring that cotton farming becomes more profitable and sustainable.
As part of that effort, the price of cotton has been raised from 800 Tanzanian shillings to between 1,100 and 1,300 shillings per kilogram, a move meant to cushion farmers from market shocks and boost income levels.
“This is not just a policy decision; it’s an economic lifeline,” said Makalla. “The government understands that cotton is the backbone of Simiyu Region, and we’re doing everything to support the hardworking people who depend on it.”
Simiyu is recognized as the leading region in cotton production in Tanzania, and its performance directly impacts national export earnings and employment.
To further empower farmers, Makalla announced that President Samia Suluhu Hassan has launched a subsidy program that will see 3,000 new tractors distributed to cotton-growing areas. Through this program, farmers will pay only 35,000 shillings to plow one acre of land, down from the usual 70,000.
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“Mechanization is key,” said Makalla. “When we reduce the cost of farming and improve access to tools, we unlock the potential of every farmer in this region.”
The government is also preparing to launch new initiatives aimed at improving access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural extension services. Plans are underway to establish local industrial storage and processing facilities to help add value to the cotton supply chain, particularly within Simiyu.
Makalla didn’t shy away from defending the region’s reputation. “Those who don’t know Simiyu say it’s poor and has no market. But that’s simply not true. The people here are some of the most industrious in the country. They deserve respect—and investment.”
The rally in Bariadi is part of Makalla’s seven-day working tour across five regions in Tanzania’s Lake Zone: Kagera, Geita, Mwanza, Simiyu, and Shinyanga. The tour aims to inspect ongoing government projects and directly engage with local communities.
