The Ministry of Agriculture has announced an increase in food production due to investments made by the Sixth Phase Government in agricultural areas.
During a discussion in Dar Es Salaam, Agriculture Minister Hussein Bashe stated that the government’s target is to achieve 130% food production, as outlined in the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Manifesto. Currently, they are at 124% and are producing more.
Minister Bashe highlighted President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts in subsidizing production activities, increasing the budget significantly over the years. The government aims to reach a budget of 1 trillion Tanzanian Shillings for the agricultural sector in the upcoming year.
One of the major accomplishments mentioned was the transformation of agriculture into a business, allowing farmers to cultivate, harvest, and sell freely. The government plans to purchase 10,000 tractors in the next few years to boost agriculture development.
Moreover, initiatives such as expanding sugar production and addressing challenges in wheat farming are underway. The government is also focusing on enhancing irrigated agriculture by studying 22 irrigation basins and drilling 67,000 wells for small farmers.
Overall, the government is working towards achieving self-sufficiency in food production and commercial feeding while empowering farmers to improve their agricultural practices for a sustainable future.