Joseph Isangura
Tanzanian farmers experienced remarkable financial success in 2024, as higher crop production and favorable market prices boosted their incomes significantly.
This impressive performance stemmed from a combination of increased global demand, favorable policies, and technological advancements in agricultural trading.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her satisfaction with the sector’s growth during her New Year remarks. She highlighted that reforms, such as the provision of subsidized fertilizers, seeds, and other inputs, played a pivotal role in driving agricultural productivity. “Our farmers are thriving, and their hard work is paying off,” President Samia stated, emphasizing that higher crop prices have benefited both farmers and the nation’s economy.
The global backdrop of climate change and supply chain disruptions has increased demand for Tanzanian agricultural products, which serve as essential raw materials for industries worldwide. Additionally, the Tanzania Mercantile Exchange PLC (TMX), an online trading platform for agricultural commodities, has enhanced market efficiency. By creating a competitive marketplace, TMX has empowered producers to secure better prices while benefiting consumers with transparent trading practices.
Several crops saw substantial price increases in 2024, further enriching farmers. Sesame prices rose to Sh4,850 per kilogram from Sh3,600 in 2023. Similarly, Arabica coffee fetched Sh8,500 per kilogram, a significant jump from Sh6,500 the previous year, while Robusta coffee climbed to Sh5,000 per kilogram from Sh3,500.
Other crops, including pigeon peas, cocoa, and cashews, also recorded notable price gains. Pigeon peas sold for Sh2,236 per kilogram in 2024, up from Sh2,000 in 2023. Cocoa prices increased to Sh35,000 per kilogram from Sh29,500, and cashews saw a dramatic rise to Sh4,195 per kilogram from Sh2,190.
The cashew sector, in particular, has shown tremendous growth. Production is projected to reach 425,205 tonnes in the 2024/25 season, a sharp increase from 310,787 tonnes in 2023/24. Based on maximum price estimates, cashew sales generated Sh1.783 trillion for farmers in 2024, a remarkable leap from Sh680.62 billion the previous year.
Also Read; Top 10 African Countries with the Highest Debt
TMX also reported significant activity on its platform, with 145,886.61 tonnes of sesame traded in 2024, generating Sh535.68 billion in revenue. TMX Finance Management Officer Prince Mng’ong’o praised the platform’s role in streamlining agricultural trading and boosting farmers’ earnings.
The positive trajectory of Tanzania’s agricultural sector underscores the importance of continued investment and reforms. Experts have called for further enhancements in infrastructure, access to finance, and technological adoption to sustain this momentum.
While Tanzanian farmers reflect on a year of unprecedented success, the country stands as a shining example of how strategic policies and market modernization can transform agriculture into a cornerstone of national prosperity. With sustained focus, the sector’s growth could unlock even greater opportunities for the millions of farmers who contribute to feeding the world.
