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A groundbreaking food systems integrated programme has been initiated in Usangu Valley, Mbeya Region, and Zanzibar, aimed at transforming agricultural practices and promoting environmental sustainability. This $9 million initiative, funded by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), seeks to address the environmental challenges posed by traditional farming methods and enhance food security in the region.
Jonathan Sawaya, an FAO expert on environment and climate change, highlighted the importance of this programme at a stakeholders’ symposium held recently. “The Usangu-Ihefu valley, the primary source of water for the Great Ruaha River, has been significantly affected by environmentally unfriendly agricultural practices,” Sawaya explained. “Our goal is to introduce new, sustainable agricultural techniques to restore the valley’s ecosystem and ensure a stable water flow.”
The programme will implement innovative agricultural methods, including aquaculture, to promote environmentally friendly practices. Aquaculture, the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, is expected to reduce the pressure on terrestrial farming and contribute to biodiversity conservation. This approach aligns with FAO’s broader mission to support sustainable agrifood systems globally, addressing issues such as biodiversity loss, land degradation, and climate change.
Thomas Chali, the acting director for the environment in Zanzibar, expressed confidence in the project’s potential to transform local agriculture. “This initiative will not only improve food security but also ensure that our farming practices are sustainable and resilient to climate change,” Chali noted.
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The FAO and GEF’s collaboration on this project is part of a larger effort to promote nature-positive, resilient agrifood systems worldwide. A recent FAO report emphasized the need for a systemic development approach to tackle the interconnected challenges of food security, environmental sustainability, and climate change. The programme in Tanzania is a step towards achieving these goals, providing a model for other regions facing similar issues.
In addition to introducing sustainable farming techniques, the programme will involve local communities in the planning and implementation process. This participatory approach ensures that the solutions are tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the region, fostering local ownership and long-term success.
The stakeholders’ symposium also served as a platform for exchanging knowledge and best practices among experts and local farmers. Workshops and training sessions will be conducted to equip farmers with the skills and knowledge needed to adopt the new techniques effectively.
The FAO’s commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture in Tanzania is evident through its various projects in the country. From enhancing animal health to building resilience against climate change, the FAO’s initiatives are geared towards creating a sustainable and secure food system for all.
